Geological Museum of Vietnam: Useful information to know

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The Geological Museum of Vietnam is one of the most fascinating Hanoi museums (Source: Collected)

Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, the Geological Museum of Vietnam is a captivating destination for anyone interested in Earth’s natural history and the geological diversity of Vietnam. The museum features a vast collection of minerals, fossils, and geological samples. In this article, we will delve into the museum’s background and what you can expect during your visit.

1. About the Geological Museum of Vietnam

1.1. Location, opening hours and entrance fee

The Geological Museum of Vietnam is located in the heart of Hanoi. 

• Location: No. 6, Pham Ngu Lao Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 8 am – 12 pm | 1 pm – 5 pm, from Monday to Friday
• Entrance fee: Free of charge

1.2. Establishment and development

The Geological Museum of Vietnam traces its origins back to the museum of the Indochina Geological Service, established in 1914 by Lantenois H. and Mansuy H. Over the first 14 years, this museum in Hanoi collected around 5,000 specimens, including rocks, ores, fossils, and archaeological samples.

In 1954, after the Geneva Agreement temporarily divided the country, the French relocated most of the specimens to Saigon, establishing a new Geological Museum under the National Geological Service. This Hanoi museum was left with approximately 2,000 specimens, many of which lost their documentation.

From 1960, with the support of Soviet experts, extensive geological surveys were conducted and the collection of specimens gained renewed focus. By 1963, the museum had resumed its exhibition activities.

The Geological Museum of Vietnam is the largest repository of geological and mineral specimens in the country (Source: Collected)

In 1991, the Geological Museum of Hanoi became an independent entity under the Geological Department of Vietnam. Since then, the museum has seen significant development in its facilities. Initially housed in a single-story building with an area of about 400 square meters, the exhibition space was expanded into a three-story building covering 1,200 square meters by 1996. The number of specimens preserved and displayed has also grown to over 4,000.

1.3. Functions and values

The Geological Museum of Vietnam is an institution under the General Department of Geology and Minerals of Vietnam. Among the museums in Hanoi, it serves multiple functions and holds significant value for both the scientific community and the general public. As a specialized institution, the museum is dedicated to the research, collection, preservation, and exhibition of geological specimens.

Over more than 90 years since its establishment, the Geological Museum of Vietnam has played a crucial role in preserving the country’s geological heritage and promoting awareness about the importance of geology in understanding our planet. Additionally, the museum contributes to heritage by highlighting the geological history of Vietnam, ensuring that this knowledge is passed down through generations.

The Geological Museum of Vietnam is also a prominent attraction in Hanoi. Its rich collections make it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the natural world and Vietnam’s geological legacy.

The Geological Museum of Vietnam is not only a center for geological research but also a vital educational resource (Source: Collected)

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2. The exhibition themes of Geological Museum of Vietnam

The museum’s exhibitions are spread across three floors, each dedicated to a specific theme.

2.1. Geological history of Vietnam and our planet

The first floor of the Geological Museum of Vietnam encompasses five key topics:

• Earth and the Solar System: This section explores the formation and structure of the Earth within the context of the solar system. Visitors can see various rock formations, fossils, and other geological specimens that tell the story of the Earth’s dynamic history.
• Geological evolution of Vietnam’s territory (lithosphere and biosphere): Here, you can delve into the geological evolution of Vietnam, examining the changes in the lithosphere and biosphere over time. This exhibition highlights the significant geological periods and events that have shaped Vietnam’s landscape and its biological diversity.
• Fundamental geological processes: This section explains the basic geological processes that have occurred throughout Earth’s history. Topics include cosmic phenomena, geodynamics, magmatic activity, sedimentation, metamorphism, and weathering. 
• Mineral potential of Vietnam: This exhibition showcases Vietnam’s rich mineral resources, detailing the types and distribution of minerals found throughout the country. 
• Vietnam’s geology in the international context: This exhibition places Vietnam’s geological features within the global geological framework. It highlights the connections between Vietnam’s geology and international geological phenomena.

The first floor of the Geological Museum of Vietnam showcases the geological history of Vietnam and our planet (Source: Collected)

2.2. Geology and minerals of Vietnam

This floor presents an in-depth look at the geological features and mineral wealth of the country through four main topics:

• Regional geology: This exhibition covers the geology of six key regions in Vietnam: the Northeast, Northwest, North Central, Central Highlands, South Central, and Southern regions. Each region’s unique geological characteristics are highlighted, providing a comprehensive understanding of Vietnam’s diverse geological landscapes.
• Mineral resources of Vietnam: This section showcases the country’s rich mineral resources, which are categorized into several groups: metals, non-metals, precious and semi-precious stones, fuels, radioactive and rare Earth elements, and mineral and hot water resources.
• Geology and mineral resources of the East Sea and Vietnam’s continental shelf: This exhibition explores the geological features and mineral resources found in the East Sea and along Vietnam’s continental shelf. It emphasizes the strategic and economic importance of these offshore resources.
• Geological and mineral maps: The final section presents various geological and mineral maps of Vietnam. These maps provide valuable information about the distribution of geological features and mineral resources across the country. 

These exhibitions offer a comprehensive overview of Vietnam’s geology and mineral wealth (Source: Collected)

2.3. Special collections

The third floor of the Geological Museum of Vietnam offers detailed insights into various geological and paleontological treasures. It includes thematic exhibitions on:

• Paleontology: This collection features fossils of ancient plants and animals that once inhabited Vietnam. 
• Mineralogy: Showcasing a wide variety of minerals, this collection includes specimens of different colors, shapes, and sizes.
• Petrology: This section presents an extensive collection of rocks, illustrating the diversity of rock types found in Vietnam and around the world.
• Ores: Featuring a collection of ore specimens, this exhibition provides an overview of the various types of ore deposits.
• Geological publications: This exhibition includes an array of geological publications, maps, and research papers. These resources offer valuable information for researchers, students, and anyone interested in geology.

Additionally, the museum features an outdoor exhibition area displaying large specimens of rocks, fossils, and ores.

The special collections at the Geological Museum of Vietnam (Source: Collected)

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3. Guide for visitors to the Geological Museum of Vietnam

To reach the Geological Museum of Vietnam from Hoan Kiem Lake, just make your way to Trang Tien Street. Go straight along Trang Tien Street, pass a roundabout, and turn right onto Pham Ngu Lao Street. The museum is located at No. 6, Pham Ngu Lao Street.

Since it is situated in the heart of Hanoi, there are many other fascinating Hanoi museums to visit nearby. To make the most of your day, consider exploring Vietnam National Museum of History, Vietnam Border Defense Museum, and Vietnamese Women’s Museum, among others.

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A visit to the Geological Museum of Vietnam is both an educational and inspiring experience. From understanding the geological history of our planet to exploring Vietnam’s unique mineral wealth, the museum offers a rich tapestry of discovery. Don’t hesitate to plan your visit today to uncover the secrets that lie beneath our feet!

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