The "Hải Phòng - French Heritage" photo exhibition runs from now until May 29 at Lam Sơn Park. Photo sggp.org.vn

HCM CITY The photo exhibition Hải Phòng - French Heritage, which reflects Hải Phòng City in both the past and present, is open at Lam Sơn Park in HCM City’s District 1 until May 29.

The six-day exhibition is organised by the People's Committee of Hải Phòng City in collaboration with the French-Vietnamese Academy of Architecture and the Department of Culture and Sports of HCM City.

With the theme Architectural Heritage Today, Prosperity for Tomorrow, the Hải Phòng - French Heritage photo exhibition showcases 65 sets of photos, including 570 images, vividly depicting the city in the past and present.

This meaningful event commemorates the 51st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations (1973-2024) and the 11th anniversary of the Việt Nam-France Strategic Partnership (2013-2024).

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Nguyễn Thị Bích Dung, director of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Hải Phòng City, said that the Hải Phòng - French Heritage photo exhibition in HCM City aims to provide more information and materials for domestic and international friends to better understand Hải Phòng's planning through various periods; its public spaces; and the conservation efforts of valuable architectural works in Hải Phòng, including French structures in the city's central area.

The authorities seek optimal solutions for the sustainable preservation and development of the city.

Founded in 1888, the port city of Hải Phòng has experienced over a century of development with numerous historical ups and downs, reflecting multiple buildings that bear the early imprints of French architecture.

Hải Phòng has evolved into a historic port city and become one of Việt Nam’s three first-class municipalities after Sài Gòn and Hà Nội.

A very important highlight that defines the city's appearance is the central urban area, which gathers many significant architectural works of great value in terms of architecture, culture, and art, showcasing the rich and diverse blend of cultures.

Over 300 villas and more than 100 public works in the city's centre remain almost intact, preserving and enhancing their usage value. VNS