Collineation measurement: A method for constructing the imperial citadel of Thang Long in harmony with nature

Researchers have identified collineation measurement as a method used by Vietnamese designers to harmonize the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long with its surrounding landscape, particularly Tản Viên Mountain. This discovery reveals that the citadel's spatial orientation and structure were deliberately aligned with natural features, integrating Tản Viên Mountain and its extensions into the city's design. The study employed a mixed-method approach, combining historical archives, fieldwork, and simulation models to analyze spatial orientation perspectives statistically. Findings indicate that collineation measurement played a key role in establishing the citadel's position, shaping human settlements, and developing urban space, with significant buildings closely tied to the surrounding landscape within 50 km.

Dinh, T., & Ren, X. (2022). Collineation measurement: A method for constructing the imperial citadel of Thang Long in harmony with nature. Frontiers of Architectural Research, 11(6), 1062–1076. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foar.2022.04.010