VietNamNet Bridge – An essay-writing contest showcasing the 1000-year history of Thang Long-Ha Noi has been launched for foreigners and Vietnamese living abroad.

The challenge, entitled Ha Noi - Your Destination, invites amateur historians to study the cultural legacy of the capital's Old Quarter, according to Dao Thanh Huong, vice chairwoman of the Ha Noi Union of Friendship Organisations, which is hosting the contest.

This year, participants have been asked to write a 1,000 word essay on ways to preserve the Old Quarter and answer six multiple choice questions.

The organising committee will award one exceptional prize worth VND4mil, one first prize of VND3mil, along with five second prizes, 10 third prizes and 20 consolation prizes.

The results will be announced on the Internet and other media outlets in October 2007.

"The organising committee would like to call for the participation of international friends near and far and the community of overseas Vietnamese," Huong said. "Your enthusiasm already contributes to the success of the activities in commemoration of the 1000th founding anniversary of Thang Long - Ha Noi."

The contest has been held annually since 2000. The organising committee selects a different topic each year, though all are aimed at acquainting foreigners and overseas Vietnamese with the culture and history of the Thang Long citadel.

Contestants can submit then answers in six languages: English, French, Russian, Chinese, Esperanto and Vietnamese. Before 2005, the contest was held only in Esperanto.

The contest, available at www.haufo.org.vn, has drawn the attention of thousands of people from across the globe. Many essays reveal a deep appreciation for Hanoi, home to an age-old civilisation and interesting historical sites, Huong said.

Situated in the heart of Hanoi, the Old Quarter has become a must-see for tourists, and the symbol of Hanoi's history. In 2010, the capital will celebrate its 1000th anniversary.

(Source: Viet Nam News)