The music, which was recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, took centre stage at the five-day festival that began in Bonheiden, 40km from the capital of Brussels, on August 15.

Earlier, the Hue Royal Art Theatre concluded a tour of France from August 8-15. After Belgium, the troupe will make a stopover in Switzerland on the last leg of their European tour.

“Nha nhac” was originally founded in the courts of royalty and reserved for annual ceremonies and special events such as coronations, funerals, and official receptions.

Although its roots can be traced to the 13^th century, “Nha nhac” reached its zenith in Hue’s royal court under the Nguyen dynasty.