Ninh Binh (VNA) - Renowned for a myriad of poems carved into its cliffs by esteemed historical figures, Non Nuoc mountain in the northern province of Ninh Binh is celebrated as the "Mountain of Poetry" and Vietnam's most prolific "museum of ancient poetry".
Non Nuoc, also known as Duc Thuy Son or Bang Son, rises gracefully out of the confluence of the Van and Day rivers in Thanh Binh ward, Ninh Binh city.
Seen from the south, the mountain resembles a blooming lotus along the Van river, while from the north, it takes the shape of a bird resting on the water. A stone staircase with 198 steps leads visitors to the summit, where lush vegetation flourishes all the year round.
This mountain has borne witness to pivotal moments in Vietnam's history. It was here that Empress Dowager Duong Van Nga handed over the imperial robe to Le Hoan on the Van river, marking the peaceful transfer of power from the Dinh dynasty to the Early Le dynasty. During the Dai Co Viet era, Non Nuoc served as a crucial outpost of the Hoa Lu ancient capital, and in the resistance against colonial forces, it became a beacon of national resistance.
Non Nuoc mountain is a repository of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, holding a unique place in the Vietnamese history. Carved into its rocky surfaces are poems and writings of kings, nobles, generals, and renowned poets from across the centuries, leaving behind a rich tapestry of historical and literary imprints.
What truly sets Non Nuoc apart is its remarkable collection of over 40 inscribed poems by celebrated Vietnamese figures like Truong Han Sieu, Nguyen Trai, Pham Su Manh, Le Thanh Tong, Le Hien Tong, and Ngo Thi Nham. It boasts 63 steles in total, comprising 53 with Han script and six in the modern Vietnamese script, 43 of which remain intact today.
Recognised for its historical and cultural significance, Non Nuoc mountain was designated a national scenic relic in 1962 and elevated to special national relic status in 2019.
Provincial authorities are committed to preserving this treasure, proposing a conservation and restoration plan that integrates Non Nuoc and Canh Dieu mountains into the broader narrative of the Hoa Lu ancient capital. This plan, set to unfold to 2050, aims to safeguard the mountain's legacy for generations to come.
In a bid to further honour its cultural heritage, Ninh Binh is also working to nominate the Non Nuoc mountain stele system for inclusion in UNESCO’s Documentary Heritage List. This initiative aligns with the province's vision of becoming a centrally-run city with a heritage-oriented urban identity, as outlined in its 2021-2030 development plan.
Today, Non Nuoc mountain is more than just a geographical landmark. It is a vibrant cultural hub that attracts tourists, both domestic and foreign, and serves as a beloved educational site for local schools. It is a place where history comes alive and where students learn about local heritage amid the echoes of the past./.
