Museums and Galleries in Hanoi

 With a long and fascinating history and a unique culture all of its own, Hanoi is often considered the cultural capital of Vietnam. Visitors can take advantage of this reputation via the city’s impressive selection of museums.

Museums and Galleries in Hanoi

Museums in Hanoi
If you make the effort to visit the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum then you should almost certainly visit the corresponding museum which is perhaps the highlight of the city’s museum facilities.

Ho Chi Minh Museum:

Dedicated to the country’s most revered political leader, the Ho Chi Minh Museum is an impressive facility offering visitors views of numerous artifacts relating to ‘Uncle Ho’s’ life. Pœetry and correspondences written by the great leader during his time in prison are displayed across the walls as well as photographs and manifestos from throughout his lifetime. The museum is commendable for its modern and symbolic design, exteriors and displays.

Fine Arts Museum: 

A somewhat brief history of the country’s art is offered via the exhibits on display at Hanoi’s Fine Arts Museum. The facility, which once served as a boarding house for French girls, is home to various examples of drawings, sculptures and paintings. The wood sculptures are something of a highlight with an impressive 16th-century bodhisattva statue with 1,000 eyes and arms, among the best examples.

Museum of History:

Previously known as the museum of the Ecole Francaise d\'Extreme Orient until returned to Vietnamese hands in 1958, this interesting facility is home to a variety of artifacts chronicling the history of the country as a whole.
Early historical treasures including some from the Bronze Age can be found on the ground floor with highlights including a collection of Ngoc Lu bronze drums. Ceramics from the Ly and Tran dynasties, bronze bells and khanh gongs are just some of the other many artifacts on display.

Geological Museum:

Housed in an impressive building of French origin, the Geological Museum features a collection of geological specimens which includes literally thousands of Mineral and rocks extracted from formations from around the country. Fossils, ores and gemstones are displayed in a large number of viewing cabinets which are accompanied by brief descriptions (in English).

Museum of Ethnology:

A fascinating centre that offers the visitor a glimpse into the backgrounds of the 54 ethnic groups currently living in Vietnam. The museum is dedicated to helping to preserve the cultural identities of these indigenous minorities through its displays of traditional clothing, jewellery, tools and cooking implements. A total of 15,000 artifacts are available for viewing as well as videos, slides and photographs.