Haiphong history

The history of Haiphong is closely interwoven with its strategic position on the coast of the Gulf of Tonkin. Although settlements have existed on this site for many centuries, the modern city owes its growth and status to the colonial era. The city's name, "Hải Phòng", translates as "coastal defence", indicating its long-standing role as a military and protective outpost. The first fortifications here were established in ancient times to protect the maritime approaches to the Red River Delta.

A key stage in the city's formation was the late 19th century, when Vietnam became part of French Indochina. In 1888, the President of France issued a decree officially establishing the city of Haiphong, which quickly transformed into a major naval base and the most important trading port in the entire region, earning the unofficial nickname "The Venice of Tonkin". Its geographical location made it the ideal gateway for trade between Northern Vietnam and the rest of the world, which determined its rapid development.

From the very beginning, Haiphong's economy was oriented towards the sea and industry. The city became a centre for shipbuilding, fishing, and goods processing. Culturally, Haiphong represents a unique blend of traditional Vietnamese life and European heritage. French influence is still visible in the architecture of the central districts, where elegant colonial-era buildings have been preserved, including the famous Opera House. This mix of styles and its dynamic port atmosphere have formed the city's distinct character, which it retains to this day.

Key Dates in the History of Haiphong

• 43 AD — Female General Le Chan establishes the settlement of An Bien, which became the historic predecessor of modern Haiphong.
• 1874 — The port officially opens for international trade, beginning to attract large merchant vessels from around the world.
• 1888 — The President of France signs a decree establishing the city, cementing its status as the region's main maritime hub.
• 1902 — The railway line connecting the port with the capital, Hanoi, and the southern provinces of China is put into operation.
• 1904 — Construction is completed on the Opera House, a magnificent building in the Neoclassical style, which becomes the city's architectural landmark.
• 1986 — The adoption of the "Doi Moi" policy opens a new economic era, stimulating the influx of foreign investment into the port zone of Vietnam.
• 2003 — Haiphong is officially recognised as a grade-1 city, confirming its key role in the country's economy and urbanisation.
• 2012 — The Red Flamboyant Flower Festival is held for the first time, becoming the city's main annual cultural and tourism event.
• 2015 — A large-scale modernisation of Cat Bi International Airport is completed, allowing it to accommodate modern airliners.
• 2017 — The launch of the VinFast automobile factory transforms the city from a purely port centre into a flagship of national industry.
• 2018 — The Tan Vu – Lach Huyen Bridge is inaugurated, becoming the longest sea-crossing bridge in Southeast Asia.

The development history of Haiphong is a journey from a strategic military outpost to the status of one of the main economic drivers of modern Vietnam. The key stages of its formation are directly linked to the changing role of the port and the introduction of new technologies.

• Official Foundation and Port Construction (1888)
  Significance: The decree establishing the city and the massive construction of deep-water berths turned Haiphong into the main maritime gateway of Northern Vietnam. This event determined the city's destiny as a key trade hub connecting the region with global markets.
• Architectural Transformation of the Centre (Early 20th Century)
  Significance: Active development in the European style, the creation of wide boulevards, and the erection of iconic buildings, such as the Opera House, formed a unique "colonial" appearance. This not only changed the urban environment but also turned Haiphong into an important cultural centre.
• Launch of the Railway Mainline (1900s)
  Significance: The railway connecting the port with Hanoi and the Chinese province of Yunnan integrated the city into the international logistics chain. This provided a powerful impetus for trade development and population growth due to the migration of workers.
• Industrialisation and Shipbuilding (Mid-20th Century)
  Significance: The development of heavy industry, especially cement plants and shipyards, cemented the city's status as the industrial heart of the country. This formed a distinct social structure and economic base that allowed the city to recover after wars.
• "Doi Moi" Economic Opening (From 1986)
  Significance: The policy of renewal allowed for the modernisation of port infrastructure and opened the city to foreign investment. This became a turning point, returning Haiphong to its role as a dynamic centre of international commerce.
• Infrastructure Breakthrough (2010s)
  Significance: The construction of a high-speed motorway to the capital and the opening of the Tan Vu – Lach Huyen Bridge (the longest sea bridge in the region) radically improved logistics. The city began to actively expand territorially, developing new lands and islands.
• Emergence as the Automotive Capital (From 2017)
  Significance: The launch of the VinFast factory on Cat Hai Island marked the transition to a high-tech economy. From a traditional port city, Haiphong transformed into a centre of advanced manufacturing, attracting modern technologies and qualified personnel.

The architectural appearance of Haiphong is a visual history of the city, where traditional Vietnamese motifs, majestic French colonial heritage, and the dynamic features of a modern metropolis intertwine harmoniously. The city's development can be divided into several key architectural eras.

French Colonial Era (Late 19th – Mid 20th Century)

This period had a decisive influence on Haiphong's urban appearance. French architects planned the central part of the city according to the European model, with wide boulevards, squares, and districts with characteristic buildings. The architecture of this time is represented mainly by Neoclassical and Gothic styles. Many buildings still retain their original appearance, especially in the Hong Bang and Le Chan districts.

• Iconic Buildings: The jewel of this era is the Opera House (Grand Theatre), built in 1904 and modelled after Parisian theatres. Other striking examples include the Haiphong Museum building in the Gothic style, old villas on Ly Thuong Kiet Street, and buildings along the Tam Bac River.

Socialist Period (1955 – Late 20th Century)

After the departure of the French and during the existence of North Vietnam, Haiphong's architecture became more functional. The main focus was on restoring the city after wars and constructing industrial facilities and residential districts. During this period, Soviet functionalism prevailed—simple buildings devoid of decorative excesses, where the main goal was practicality. This development formed the appearance of many residential and industrial areas of the city.

Modern Era (21st Century)

With the onset of economic growth, Haiphong is experiencing a construction boom. The city's modern architecture is defined by glass, steel, and concrete. High-rise buildings, modern shopping and entertainment complexes, and new residential areas are appearing. The city is actively expanding, especially in the northern direction across the Cam River, where new urban zones and business centres are being erected.

• Key Projects: Symbols of this new stage of development include ambitious projects such as the Political-Administrative Centre and the Conference Centre, the architecture of which resembles a floating ship. The construction of numerous bridges, including the longest sea-crossing bridge in Southeast Asia, Tan Vu – Lach Huyen, and the development of modern industrial parks highlight Haiphong's status as a dynamic and forward-looking metropolis.

Distinguished Personalities in the History of Haiphong

Haiphong, a city with a rich and centuries-old history, has been the birthplace or place of activity for many iconic figures who have left a notable mark on the history, culture, and development of Vietnam. From legendary female warriors to artists and modern innovators, these personalities have shaped the character of the "City of Red Flamboyant Flowers".

• Le Chan (Lê Chân) — The legendary founder of the city. According to legend, in 43 AD, the female General Le Chan, a companion of the Trung Sisters in the struggle against the Chinese Han dynasty, founded a settlement on the site of modern Haiphong to organise coastal defence. She is revered as the patroness and creator of the city, and a monument has been erected in her honour in the centre of Haiphong.
• Nguyen Binh Khiem (Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm) — A 16th-century scholar, poet, and philosopher. Although he was born in a village located near Haiphong, his life and legacy are closely connected to the region. He was a distinguished sage, prophet, and statesman, known for his integrity and profound knowledge. His teachings had a huge influence on Vietnamese thought, and his memorial complex is an important historical site.
• Mac Dang Dung (Mạc Đăng Dung) — Founder of the Mac Dynasty (16th century). A native of these lands, he made the region the second capital of his state. His reign was marked by the development of trade and the strengthening of the area's importance as a port, which laid the foundations for Haiphong's future economic growth.
• Van Cao (Văn Cao) — Composer, poet, and painter. Born in Haiphong in 1923, Van Cao is the author of the national anthem of Vietnam, "Marching Song" (Tiến Quân Ca), written in 1945. His work, including music and poetry, has become an integral part of the country's cultural heritage.
• To Hieu (Tô Hiệu) — Revolutionary figure. He was one of the key leaders of the communist movement in Vietnam in the first half of the 20th century. His activities in Haiphong and its surroundings contributed to the mobilisation of workers and the creation of revolutionary cells, making the city one of the centres of the struggle for independence.
• Pham Nhat Vuong (Phạm Nhật Vượng) — Modern entrepreneur and innovator. Although not a native of Haiphong, his activities have had a colossal impact on the city's modern economy. Founder of the Vingroup conglomerate, he built the VinFast factory in Haiphong—the first national automobile manufacturer in Vietnam. This project has become a symbol of industrial power and technological breakthrough not only for the city but for the entire country.