Saigon was founded in the 17th century by Chinese merchants. It became a French colony in the 19th century and its name was changed to Ho Chi Minh City in 1975 after the Vietnam War. The city was heavily bombed during the war, but has since rebuilt and become one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in Southeast Asia.

During the colonial period, Saigon was an important commercial and cultural center. The city is home to many public buildings and churches built in the French colonial architectural style. Saigon is also home to a diverse community of Vietnamese, Chinese, French and foreigners.

The Vietnam War caused a lot of damage to Saigon. The city was heavily bombed and many historical buildings were destroyed. After the war, Saigon was rebuilt and became the capital of unified Vietnam.