The first time she set foot in Park No. 1 Ly Thai To (Vuon Lai ward, Ho Chi Minh City), Ms. Mai Huong (Phu Nhuan ward) could not hide her emotion when standing in front of the square, where the Water Drop symbol is located, a building built to commemorate the losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
After being renovated, the park has a new look with a spacious, green and peaceful space. Amidst the fast pace of urban life, this place has become a necessary quiet space, both solemn and gentle, helping people slow down to listen to themselves.
Not only Ms. Huong, many people, especially young people, also come to this place to stroll, visit and silently look at the not-too-distant memories of the city. For Ms. Huong, this trip was once delayed because of the worry that emotions would become heavy. "The days of the epidemic are still very clear in memory, just thinking about it makes me sad. But when I come here, I feel lighter. The harmonious, quiet green space makes the sadness seem to be soothed. This place is not only for remembrance, but also helps me find peace again," Ms. Huong shared.
Mr. Luong Minh Khoi (Tan Hoa ward, Ho Chi Minh City) also visited for the first time and was impressed with the image of the Water Drop symbol in the open space. According to him, this is not only a beautiful project but also has profound meaning. "People come here crowded but not noisy, everyone seems to keep a private moment of silence. Looking at the symbol, I think of those who passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic. The city creating a place to both participate in community activities and commemorate like this is very meaningful," Mr. Khoi shared.
Meanwhile, Mr. Quang Tri (Go Vap ward, Ho Chi Minh City), a Vietnamese living abroad, said he clearly felt peace when coming here. “The space is very beautiful and airy. I am touched that the city has set a solemn place to commemorate the deceased. The Water Drop symbol is simple but evokes many thoughts,” he shared.
Park No. 1 Ly Thai To was inaugurated in January 2026 after more than 3 months of urgent construction. The highlight of the park is the Water Drop symbol in the 1,800 m2 square, with a 6m high monument placed in the center, reflecting the image of each person standing around.
Not just a landscape work, this place is also a space to preserve memories and emotions. A place to remember, to heal, and for everyone when visiting to find peace after the upheavals that have passed.
