Mountains and river scene at a boat dock inside Tràng An landscape complex. — VNA/VNS Photo

TRÀNG AN — Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex in the northern province of Ninh Binh holds exceptional natural and cultural significance, carrying an economic value of US$213 billion, experts told a recent international workshop.

The valuation emerged from a joint study by Italy’s Santagata Foundation for the Economics of Culture, Germany’s Leibniz Institute for Ecological Urban and Regional Development, and the School of Interdisciplinary Science and Arts at Vietnam National University – Hà Nội.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Hồng Thục from the School of Interdisciplinary Science and Arts explained that the economic value is rooted in four key pillars: natural ecosystem, cultural and historical significance, heritage-based settlements and livelihoods, and brand spillover value.

The workshop, themed "Converting the Economic Values of the Tràng An Landscape Complex and Branding of Broader World Heritage Destination", showcased Tràng An's unique blend of cultural and natural wonders. From the serene Tràng An Ecotourism Complex to the majestic Bái Đính pagoda and the picturesque Tam Cốc - Bích Động, the site is a tapestry of historical and archaeological treasures that reflect both ancient and contemporary Vietnamese civilisation.

Tam Cốc - Bích Động, part of Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex. — VNA/VNS Photo

Spanning over 12,100 ha, including a core heritage area and a buffer zone, Tràng An has been a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site since June 2014. Hoa Lư City, which encompasses 70 per cent of the site, is poised to become a heritage urban area with a distinct cultural landscape identity.

Beyond its historical, cultural and natural assets, Ninh Bình boasts strong economic and infrastructural potential, solidifying its role as a key hub within the Red River Delta. Today, Hoa Lư - Tràng An is known worldwide as a heritage city that stands alongside renowned destinations like Hà Nội, HCM City, Huế, Hội An, and Hạ Long.

In terms of urban classification, Hoa Lư currently holds the distinction of being the only first-tier city within a province in the southern Red River Delta region, further cementing its place on the global tourism map.

Phạm Quang Ngọc, Chairman of the provincial People's Committee, affirmed that Director-General of UNESCO Audrey Azoulay has hailed the complex as a global model for blending economic growth with sustainable tourism while maintaining respect for nature. This harmonious balance benefits local communities, the State and businesses, embodying Việt Nam's responsible commitment to UNESCO’s Convention concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

Notably, the establishment of Hoa Lư City, formed by merging Ninh Bình City and Hoa Lư District with Tràng An at its core, marks a significant step. It reflects a broader trend of expanding heritage tourism links across provinces, regions, and internationally, enhancing the site’s unique value and global brand.— VNA/VNS