Remains of an ancient citadel more than 1,600 years old was discovered Friday by archaeologists in the central province of Ha Tinh. A part of the citadel, a 1-kilometer long section of the structure made of stones, was found by the archaeologists on top of But Mountain Pass in Ky Anh District. The whole citadel was 30 kilometers long built between 345 and 375 A.D. as a fortress to protect the nation from its enemies.

The ancient citadel was made of stones and earth and leaned on a mountain, running across three villages. According to a local official, the citadel was covered by stones before. But several years ago, local residents discovered the structure and started getting stones from it to build a dike. Local authorities found out about it and ordered a stop to the destructive practice to preserve the historic structure.

Deputy Director of Ha Tinh Museum Le Ba Hanh was very happy with the discovery of the ancient citadel, stating that this will greatly benefit historical researchers in their studies.