Hanoi sets to become cultural centre

Hanoi authorities said they will turn the city into a cultural centre by 2020 – the first of its kind in Vietnam.

As part of the plan, a system of museums and cultural centres will be built to preserve Vietnamese culture. Statues, squares and parks will be enhanced and theatres, cinemas and libraries developed along with the performing arts and system.

A 60,000 square meter area of the ancient Thang Long Royal Citadel at 18 Hoang Dieu Street will be turned into a historical and archaeological park, which is expected to open in 2016.

The Old Quarter, the bustling and interesting attraction of Hanoi, will be preserved while restoration work for old temples, pagodas and community halls are scheduled to finish by 2015.

The authorities aim to make the capital a cultural model for other cities and provinces. In the development process, 70 percent of residents in the popular tourist area will be moved to new urban areas.