The recognition from the IUGS not only reaffirms the value of this heritage site but also emphasizes the global importance of preserving such unique geological landscapes. As the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago continues to attract global attention, it serves as a vital natural archive of earth’s geological history and a beacon for conservation efforts.
The International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) has officially recognized the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago, located in Quang Ninh Province and Hai Phong City, as a world geological heritage site. This prestigious designation highlights the area’s exceptional geological history and karst geomorphology, distinguishing it among 100 other sites across 53 countries.
A Rich Geological Tapestry Unveiled
The recognition by IUGS was formally announced at the 37th International Geological Congress 2024 in Busan, South Korea. The Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago is celebrated for its comprehensive representation of tropical karst processes, including all stages of marine submergence and three main types of caves: ancient marine frog-jaw caves, ancient karst caves, and frog-jaw caves. This area not only showcases the later stages of marine subduction but also enriches the heritage with its terrestrial and intertidal stages.
Dual UNESCO Recognition Elevates Ha Long Bay’s Status
Previously, Ha Long Bay achieved UNESCO world natural heritage status twice—first in 1994 for its universal aesthetic value and again in 2000 for its geological and geomorphological significance. In September 2023, the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Committee recognized the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago as the first Vietnamese inter-provincial site, affirming its global natural heritage status.
Geological Significance Spanning Millennia
The unique geological and geomorphological features observed in the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago today are the culmination of over 500 million years of regional tectonic activities. This long history has sculpted a landscape that not only draws scientific interest but also captivates visitors from around the world.
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