Da Lat, known for its favourable weather, is often referred to as a “forest in the city and city in the forest”, “fog city” or "city of flowers”, according to Thanh Nien (Young People) newspaper.
Da Lat has villas and public architectural works that are inspired by both Asian and European cultures, Le Quang Trung, director of the provincial Department of Construction, said.
The style of architecture goes hand in hand with nature, with tourism spots that are different from those found in other cities, he added.
Vice Chairman of the Da Lat People’s Committee Vo Ngoc Trinh said that if it was not for the pine forest, great weather, distinguished architecture and friendly locals, Da Lat would not have gained so much love.
Authorities in the locality over the years have focused on developing the city while also preserving its cultural heritage, he said.
Trung noted that the Law on Cultural Heritage in 2001 only defines tangible cultural heritage and intangible cultural heritage, but the concept of urban heritage site has not yet been clarified.
However, to preserve and promote the heritage value from a modern urban perspective, it is essential to have a specific policy when developing a heritage site such as Da Lat.
Three factors should be considered and preserved, including the climate and natural landscape, existing architectural works, and the culture and people, Trung said.
According to architect Tran Van Viet, the concept of an urban heritage site is not new, but it is difficult to pursue, considering that Việt Nam has not yet had an urban heritage site.
“Maps from Dr Yersin’s (founder of Da Lat) era and urban planning from the French colonial period have to be collected in order to compile a thorough proposal about Da Lat before submitting it to the state for recognition of a cultural heritage fund," Viet said.
It is also important to conduct research and assess the value of existing architectural works in the area, among other tasks, he added.
