Authorities and residents of Chieng Chau commune, Mai Chau district, are making efforts to preserve and promote the historical value of a centuries-old gold apple tree (scientifically known as diospyros decandra lour), which has been recognised as a national heritage tree.

The gold apple tree in Mo hamlet, Chieng Chau commune, is regarded as a
"living witness" to the ups and downs of Mai Chau's history.
Located
in Mo Hamlet, the tree has stood through centuries of history, from executions
in legendary battles to massacres under French colonial rule. During wartime,
it provided shelter for guerrilla forces, withstanding heavy bombing and
remaining resilient to this day.
Recognised
as a Vietnamese heritage tree in 2016, it stands as a symbol of resilience and
cultural pride for the local community.
Ha
Thi Yen, Secretary of the Party cell of Mo hamlet, highlighted the recognition
as an important step in preserving cultural identity and passing down
historical awareness to future generations.
Authorities
in Chieng Chau commune have also incorporated the tree into local tourism
development plans.
Ha
Van Tiep, Chairman of the commune People's Committee, noted plans to integrate
the site with other attractions like Lac hamlet and Pieng Kem Cave, aiming to
showcase both the area's natural beauty and historical significance.
The
preservation of the heritage tree is part of broader efforts to maintain
cultural heritage and promote spiritual tourism in the region.
The most prominent and defining feature in the prehistoric era of Hoa Binh is the Hoa Binh Culture. The Culture was first discovered in Hoa Binh. The significant prehistoric culture represents not only Vietnam but also Southeast Asia and southern China. Through excavations of cave sites in the limestone regions of Hoa Binh, French archaeologist M. Colani introduced the world to a "Stone Age in Hoa Binh province – Northern Vietnam" in 1927. On January 30, 1932, the First Congress of Far Eastern Prehistorians, held in Hanoi, officially recognised the Hoa Binh Culture.
Known as the "Land of Epic History”, Hoa Binh province, the gateway to Vietnam’s northwest, boasts a strategic location and a unique cultural tapestry woven by its ethnic minority communities.
The People's Committee of Luong Son District recently held a ceremony to receive the certificate recognizing Sau Communal House in Thanh Cao Commune as a provincial-level historical and cultural site.
Recognising the importance of cultural heritage preservation in protecting and promoting the value system of Vietnamese culture, and serving socio-economic development in the new period, Party committees and local administrations in Hoa Binh province have identified it as a key task in the cultural development strategy. The province has been making efforts in mobilising resources, creating consensus among people and engaging ethnic communities in preserving and promoting cultural identity.
Hoa Binh province has captured growing attention both domestically and internationally for its distinctive cultural heritage and rich history. Most notably, it has been renowned for its famous Hoa Binh culture, considered the cradle of ancient Vietnamese civilisation. Looking ahead to significant milestones in 2025 and the 140th anniversary of province establishment in 2026, Hoa Binh Newspaper presents a comprehensive overview of the province's development across economic, social, cultural, tourism, and security domains.
Authorities in Luong Son district have officially recognised Sau communal house in Thanh Cao commune as a provincial-level historical and cultural relic site.