The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi was granted a UNESCO honourable mention at a ceremony in Hanoi on October 14 for conserving its bomb shelter.
Chief of the Culture Unit of UNESCO's Bangkok office Tim Curtis, who is Chair of the Heritage Awards jury panel, presented the award to hotel General Manager Clive Scott. He also presented certificates of recognition to the members of the conservation team.
The jury praised the sensitive approach and thoughtful interpretation taken throughout the restoration. The project provides a rare glimpse into an important chapter of contemporary Vietnamese history.
Built during the war somewhere under the garden between the swimming pool and Le Club bar, the bomb shelter was discovered in 2011.
The bomb shelter has been preserved in its original condition, with the unobtrusive addition of new mechanical and electrical installations to allow the space to be accessible and safe for public viewing.
The 2013 UNESCO Heritage Awards also granted the award to the restoration of historical buildings in Duong Lam Village in Hanoi's suburban Son Tay district.