Ninh Binh, July 18 -- Authorities in Xuan Hong commune of the northern province of Ninh Binh are leveraging digital technology to preserve cultural heritage and promote rural tourism, with the centuries-old Keo Hanh Thien Pagoda serving as the centrepiece of the initiative.

Keo Hanh Thien Pagoda is one of Vietnam's most significant ancient temples, renowned for its historical, architectural and cultural values. It was recognised as a Special National Relic site in 2016, while its annual festival was inscribed on the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2019.

A project to digitalise the pagoda, launched in 2023, aims to build a comprehensive digital database documenting its history, architecture, cultural heritage and community ...