Search Results

Updated 9/21/2024 I find the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huế Citadel, to be fascinating. Many of the monuments inside it represent the best of the classical Vietnamese architecture. Numerous palaces in the Imperial Citadel (Hoàng Thành) were destroyed or heavily damaged during the war, from 1945 to 1975, and are only being rebuilt or repaired in the last twenty five years. I write this blog because I want to share my discovery about this special place with others, who wish to know more about it. I have included many details about this Citadel, which may not be interesting to a casual reader, but I feel are necessary for the sake of completeness. The important items are in BOLD and the rest can be glanced over. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Ngọ Môn", 2024, Accessed via https://wiki-travel.com.vn/Uploads/picture/camnhi-242411112435-dia-diem-du-lich-hue-di-tich-van-hoa-lich-su-4.jpg The body of work that makes up Wikitravel—text, images, audio, video, etc.—is free for anyone to use, as long as they comply with our copyleft . Altered from source photo. Forbidden Citadel (Tử Cấm Thành), the innermost ring The Forbidden Citadel, in the center, is inside the third ring of the Huế Citadel, behind Thái Hòa Palace, with 0.75 miles in circumference. It had the following palaces on its central axis starting with Cần Chánh Palace on the south-end, behind Đại Cung Môn (Gate). It was then followed by Càn Thành Palace, Khôn Thái Palace, and finally, Kiến Trung Palace on the north-end. There are numerous destroyed structures, on both sides of the central axis, that have not yet been restored. Below is a picture that shows the locations of various former palaces on the central axis. Source: Author unknown. "Công cuộc xây dựng kinh đô dưới triều Nguyễn." Dư địa chí. Cổng Thông Tin Điện Tử Thừa Thiên Huế. https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Thong-tin-du-dia-chi/tid/Cong-cuoc-xay-dung-kinh-do-Hue-duoi-trieu-Nguyen/newsid/213C554A-4BA2-45A7-808E-354FE9B39891/cid/F0BB6DEB-C54A-4C2B-A00A-CB0A7C120763 Multiple authors. "Hoàng Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated April 22, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF Image source: Unknown photographer, "Điện Cần Chánh," 2024. Accessed via https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Thong-tin-du-dia-chi/tid/Dien-Can-Chanh/newsid/9607503D-B771-4418-BF27-067108896B1D/cid/4E568EE4-C8BC-4F08-8B97-706999B99B37 Altered from source photo. Below is a picture of Đại Cung Môn (Gate) before it was destroyed in 1947. It is the main gate to the Forbidden Citadel, on the south side. There are six additional gates: two gates on each of the remaining three sides. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Đại Cung Môn," Year unknown. Accessed via https://toplist.vn/top/dai-cung-mon-459147.htm Unaltered from source photo. Cần Chánh Palace, where the Emperor had his audiences with his Ministers and also with foreign Dignitaries, was the most important palace in the Forbidden Citadel. Royal banquets were also being held here. It was completely destroyed in 1947. It is slated to be rebuilt, starting in the fourth quarter of 2024. Below are some of its pictures: the exterior and interior in the thirties of the 20th century. Source: Unknown author. "Thừa Thiên - Huế: Sẵn sàng khởi công phục dựng Điện Cần Chánh trong quý IV/2024." tin tức Thông Tấn Xã Việt Nam. April 19, 2024. https://baotintuc.vn/van-hoa/san-sang-khoi-cong-phuc-dungdien-can-chanh-trong-quy-iv2024-20240419094725536.htm Image source: Unknown photographer, "Điện Cần Chánh," Year unknown. Accessed via https://dulich.laodong.vn/photo/nhung-buc-anh-quy-ve-dien-can-chanh-cua-hoang-thanh-hue-thoi-chua-bi-huy-966434.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Nội thất Điện Cần Chánh," Year unknown. Accessed via https://hieuco.net/tin-tuc-su-kien/chum-anh-dien-can-chanh-o-co-do-hue-khi-chua-bi-pha-huy-364.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Nội thất Điện Cần Chánh," Year unknown. Accessed via https://hieuco.net/tin-tuc-su-kien/chum-anh-dien-can-chanh-o-co-do-hue-khi-chua-bi-pha-huy-364.html  Unaltered from source photo. On both sides of Cần Chánh Palace are Tả Vu, and Hữu Vu. The Mandarins waited in these halls, before they had their audiences with the Emperor. Below are the pictures of Hữu Hall: the exterior and interior. Tả Hall is similar. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Tả Vu - Hữu Vu," Year unknown. Accessed via https://lendang.vn/destination/ta-vu-huu-vu.html#google_vignette Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Francisco Anzola, "Bên trong Hữu Vu," Year unknown. Accessed via https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/T%E1%BB%AD_C%E1%BA%A5m_th%C3%A0nh_%28Hu%E1%BA%BF%29 Unaltered from source photo. Càn Thành Palace, the residence of the Emperor, was destroyed in 1947. Khôn Thái Palace, the residence of the Queen, was demolished during the reign of Emperor Bảo Đại, the last Emperor of the Nguyễn dynasty. In its place is the garden in front of Kiến Trung Palace. Source: adminlaque.vn . "Cung Khôn Thái - Nơi ăn ở sinh hoạt của các bà Hoàng hậu." codohue.vn January 9, 2024. https://codohue.vn/cung-khon-thai-noi-an-o-sinh-hoat-cua-cac-ba-hoang-hau/ Kiến Trung Palace was built by Emperor Khải Định, Emperor Bảo Đại's father, in 1921 and completed in 1923. A pavillion was demolished to make room for it. It was a baroque palace, built in the style of French, Italian Renaissance, and Vietnamese. It was expanded during Emperor Bảo Đại's reign and also remodeled to include the bathrooms. It was completely destroyed in 1947, and it was rebuilt and completed in 2024, to look like what it was during Emperor Khải Định's reign. Below are some of its pictures. Note the thirteen doors on each floor of the front facade. Again, thirteen is not considered to be unlucky! Source: Multiple authors. "Điện Kiến Trung (Hoàng thành Huế)." Wikipedia tiếng Việt vi.wikipedia.org Last updated July 31, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%90i%E1%BB%87n_Ki%E1%BA%BFn_Trung_(Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF) Image source: Lê Hoàng, "Điện Kiến Trung," 2024. Accessed via https://khamphahue.com.vn/Van-hoa/Chi-tiet/tid/Dien-Kien-Trung.html/pid/16655/cid/81 Unaltered from source. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Nội thất Điện Kiến Trung," 2024. Accessed via https://scov.gov.vn/dat-nuoc-con-nguoi/dat-nuoc-viet-nam/dien-kien-trung-mot-di-san-hoi-sinh.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Nội thất Điện Kiến Trung," 2024. Accessed via https://khamphahue.com.vn/Van-hoa/Chi-tiet/tid/Dien-Kien-Trung.html/pid/16655/cid/81 Unaltered from source photo. Below are two picture that show the exquisite ceramic decoration on the facades of Kiến Trung Palace. Image source: Lê Hoàng, "Điện Kiến Trung," 2024. Accessed via https://baochinhphu.vn/net-uy-nghi-trang-le-cua-dien-kien-trung-hoang-thanh-hue-1022402221553592.htm Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Họa tiết trên Điện Kiến Trung," 2024. Accessed via https://viettimes.vn/anh-ngam-dien-kien-trung-o-hue-sau-5-nam-trung-tu-post173200.html Unaltered from source photo. Below is a picture that shows the beautifully hand painted decoration on the interior walls. Image source: Lê Hoàng, "Điện Kiến Trung," 2024. Accessed via https://baochinhphu.vn/net-uy-nghi-trang-le-cua-dien-kien-trung-hoang-thanh-hue-1022402221553592.htm Unaltered from source photo. Below are some of the old pictures of the interior of the palace in the thirties of the 20th century. Image source: AAVH j. c., "Nội thất Điện Kiến Trung," 1928, Accessed by https://sdl.thuathienhue.gov.vn/?gd=4&cn=381&tc=1873 Unaltered from source photo. Image source: AAVH j. c., "Nội thất Điện Kiến Trung," 1928. Accessed by https://sdl.thuathienhue.gov.vn/?gd=4&cn=381&tc=1873 Unaltered from source photo. Thái Bình Lâu, the Royal Reading Pavilion The pavilion was built in 1887 during the reign of Emperor Đồng Khánh and improved during his son's reign in 1919. The most recent restoration was done in 2010. The pavilion is located to the right of Càn Thành Palace, looking north. This was the place where the Emperor came to read, compose poetry, and relax. It was definitely his man cave. Below are pictures of the exterior and interior of Thái Bình Pavilion. Source: Unknown author. "Hoàn thành trùng tu, đưa vào sử dụng di tích Thái Bình Lâu." vov.vn March 27, 2015 https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%90i%E1%BB%87n_Ki%E1%BA%BFn_Trung_(Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF) Image source: Unknown photographer, "Thái Bình Lâu," 2024. Accessed via https://vntravel.org.vn/kiet-tac-xu-hue-thai-binh-lau-bieu-tuong-cua-nghe-thuat-trang-tri-tao-hinh-doc-dao-a3452.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Đỗ Trưởng, "Thái Bình Lâu," 2020. Accessed via https://bnews.vn/photo/doc-dao-nghe-thuat-kham-sanh-su-o-thai-binh-lau-trong-tu-cam-thanh/150771/trang-1.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Thái Bình Lâu," 2024. Accessed via https://vntravel.org.vn/kiet-tac-xu-hue-thai-binh-lau-bieu-tuong-cua-nghe-thuat-trang-tri-tao-hinh-doc-dao-a3452.html Unaltered from source. Image source: Đỗ Trưởng, "Nội thất Thái Bình Lâu," 2020. Accessed via https://bnews.vn/photo/doc-dao-nghe-thuat-kham-sanh-su-o-thai-binh-lau-trong-tu-cam-thanh/150771/trang-1.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Nội thất Thái Bình Lâu," 2024. Accessed via https://vntravel.org.vn/kiet-tac-xu-hue-thai-binh-lau-bieu-tuong-cua-nghe-thuat-trang-tri-tao-hinh-doc-dao-a3452.html Unaltered from source photo. Below is a picture that shows the exquisite ceramic decoration on the facade of Thái Bình Pavilion. One can see this type of intricate decoration on other palaces. Image source: Đỗ Trưởng, "Thái Bình Lâu," 2020. Accessed via https://bnews.vn/photo/doc-dao-nghe-thuat-kham-sanh-su-o-thai-binh-lau-trong-tu-cam-thanh/150771/trang-1.html Unaltered from source photo. Duyệt Thị Đường, the Royal Theater The Royal Theater was built in 1824 and completed in 1826 during the reign of Emperor Ming Mạng. It has been remodeled many times since. The most recent was in 2004. It is located east of Càn Thành Palace. Below are the pictures of the exterior and interior. One can enjoy royal music and dance performances here, throughout the year. Source: Multiple authors. "Duyệt Thị Đường (Hoàng thành Huế)." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org Last updated September 29, 2023. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duy%E1%BB%87t_Th%E1%BB%8B_%C4%91%C6%B0%E1%BB%9Dng_(Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF) Image source: UBND Thừa Thiên Huế, "Cổng nhà hát,", 2022. Accessed via https://www.ivivu.com/blog/2022/10/duyet-thi-duong-nha-hat-co-nhat-cua-san-khau-truyen-thong-viet-nam/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Duyệt Thị Đường," 2014. Accessed via http://dccd.vn/duyet-thi-duong-nha-hat-co-cung-dinh-hue/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Duyệt Thị Đường," 2017. Accessed via https://hoiandanang.com/listing/nha-hat-duyet-thi-duong-hue/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Duyệt Thị Đường," 2022. Accessed via https://phongnhalocals.com/duyet-thi-duong-theater/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Duyệt Thị Đường," 2021. Accessed via https://phongnhalocals.com/duyet-thi-duong-theater/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Duyệt Thị Đường," 2021. Accessed via https://phongnhalocals.com/duyet-thi-duong-theater/ Unaltered from source photo. Royal Garden Thiệu Phương, Nhật Thành Lâu (Pavilion), and Trường Lang (Long Corridor) The Royal Garden Thiệu Phương is the only garden left in the Forbidden Citadel. It was restored in 2002 after many years of being neglected. It is located east of the Royal Reading Pavilion, and Càn Thành Palace. Below are some of the pictures. Source: Multiple authors. "Vườn Thiệu Phương." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org Last updated February 24, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/V%C6%B0%E1%BB%9Dn_Thi%E1%BB%87u_Ph%C6%B0%C6%A1ng Image source: Unknown photographer, "Thiệu Phương Viên," 2021. Accessed via https://hanhtrinhdulich.vn/vuon-ngu-uyen-thieu-phuong-thang-canh-dep-thu-hai-cua-dat-than-kinh-6585/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Bảo Minh, "Thiệu Phương Viên," 2021. Accessed via https://baoxaydung.com.vn/ngam-khu-vuon-ngu-uyen-noi-tieng-trong-20-thang-canh-dat-than-kinh-319078.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Bảo Minh, "Thiệu Phương Viên," 2021. Accessed via https://baoxaydung.com.vn/ngam-khu-vuon-ngu-uyen-noi-tieng-trong-20-thang-canh-dat-than-kinh-319078.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Bảo Minh, "Thiệu Phương Viên," 2021. Accessed via https://baoxaydung.com.vn/ngam-khu-vuon-ngu-uyen-noi-tieng-trong-20-thang-canh-dat-than-kinh-319078.html Unaltered from source photo. Nhật Thành Pavilion was built in 1841 and restored in 2018. This was the only Buddhist Worship Hall in the Imperial Citadel. It is located on the west side of Thiệu Phương Royal Garden. Source: Multiple authors. "Nhật Thành Lâu." Wikipedia tiếng Việt vi.wikipedia.org February 1, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nh%E1%BA%ADt_Th%C3%A0nh_l%C3%A2u Image source: Barrysphere, "Nhật Thành Lâu," . Accessed via https://www.wikiwand.com/vi/T%E1%BB%AD_C%E1%BA%A5m_th%C3%A0nh_%28Hu%E1%BA%BF%29#Media/T%E1%BA%ADp_tin:Hue-Forbidden-City-Nguyen-Dynasty.jpg CC BY-SA 4.0 Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Steeve Leulier, "Nhật Thành Lâu," 2019. Accessed by https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/T%E1%BA%ADp_tin:Nh%E1%BA%ADt_Th%C3%A0nh_pavilion_by_Steeve_Leulier_8.jpg Unaltered from source photo. Below are the locations of the structures mentioned above, starting with the Royal Reading Pavilion. Image source: "Huế Forbidden Citadel," 2024. Accessed via https://www.google.com/maps/@16.4706602,107.5776762,261m/data=!3m1!1e3?entry=ttu Altered from source static image. Below are pictures of Trường Lang, the covered corridors, that connect the palaces and other structures within the Forbidden Citadel. They are exquisitely decorated. Image source: Pham Hieu, "Trường Lang," 2013. Accessed via https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Tr%C6%B0%E1%BB%9Dng_lang_%C4%90%E1%BA%A1i_n%E1%BB%99i_Hu%E1%BA%BF%281%29.jpg Unaltered from source photo. Image source: lightwrite on Flickr, "Trường Lang," 2014. Accessed via https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tr%C6%B0%E1%BB%9Dng_lang_%C4%90%E1%BA%A1i_n%E1%BB%99i_Hu%E1%BA%BF.jpg Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Hoàng on Pinterest, "Trường Lang," Year unknown. Accessed via https://www.pinterest.com/pin/trng-lang-hu--313703930293641742/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Aleksey Gnilenkov, "Trường Lang," 2011. Accessed via https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tr%C6%B0%E1%BB%9Dng_lang_%C4%90%E1%BA%A1i_n%E1%BB%99i_Hu%E1%BA%BF_%288104955322%29.jpg Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Jean-Marc Astesana, "Trường Lang," 2013. Accessed via https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tr%C6%B0%E1%BB%9Dng_lang_%C4%90%E1%BA%A1i_n%E1%BB%99i_Hu%E1%BA%BF_%288638871212%29.jpg Unaltered from source photo. The Government of Việt Nam, its skilled craftsmen and talented artists, have been lovingly restored many of the damaged structures inside the Huế Citadel, that we see and enjoy today. Hopefully, it will be restored completely to its former splendor, in the near future. I hope you find my blog informative and enjoyable. Please look for my next blog about the Beaches of Việt Nam from North to South.

Updated 9/21/2024 I find the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huế Citadel, to be fascinating. Many of the monuments inside it represent the best of the classical Vietnamese architecture. Numerous palaces in the Imperial Citadel (Hoàng Thành) were destroyed or heavily damaged during the war, from 1945 to 1975, and are only being rebuilt or repaired in the last twenty five years. I write this blog because I want to share my discovery about this special place with others, who wish to know more about it. I have included many details about this Citadel, which may not be interesting to a casual reader, but I feel are necessary for the sake of completeness. The important items are in BOLD and the rest can be glanced over. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Ngọ Môn", 2024, Accessed via https://wiki-travel.com.vn/Uploads/picture/camnhi-242411112435-dia-diem-du-lich-hue-di-tich-van-hoa-lich-su-4.jpg The body of work that makes up Wikitravel—text, images, audio, video, etc.—is free for anyone to use, as long as they comply with our copyleft . Altered from source photo. Imperial Citadel (Hoàng Thành), the inner middle ring The Imperial Citadel occupies approximately 90 acres with 1.5 miles in circumference. It composes of six areas: (1) the Worship Halls on the southwest and southeast sides, (2) the Queen Dowager's Residence on the northwest side (3) the Throne Hall on the south central axis (4) the Forbidden Citadel on the north central axis, (5) the Royal Treasury on east side, and (6) one of the two Royal Gardens on the northeast side. It had over one hundred structures before the war. Source: Author unknown. "Công cuộc xây dựng kinh đô dưới triều Nguyễn." Dư địa chí. Cổng Thông Tin Điện Tử Thừa Thiên Huế. https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Thong-tin-du-dia-chi/tid/Cong-cuoc-xay-dung-kinh-do-Hue-duoi-trieu-Nguyen/newsid/213C554A-4BA2-45A7-808E-354FE9B39891/cid/F0BB6DEB-C54A-4C2B-A00A-CB0A7C120763 Multiple authors. "Hoàng Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated April 22, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF Vermillion and gold are the primary colors in the Imperial Citadel. They denote the imperial power inside its walls. Gold paints the roofs and walls of the palaces and vermillion paints their columns and doors. Also, the dragon motifs, representing the imperial authority, are on every structure in the Citadel. Image source: "Huế Imperial Citadel," 2024. Accessed via https://www.google.com/maps/@16.4695403,107.5770157,1042m/data=!3m1!1e3?entry=ttu Altered from source static image Image source: Unknown creator, "Huế Imperial City", 2023, Accessed via https://www.travelcities.net/2023/08/hue-imperial-city-vietnam/ Unaltered from source image. Image source: Lê Đình Hoàng , "Toàn cảnh di tích kinh thành Huế," 2024. Accessed via https://suckhoedoisong.vn/dieu-it-biet-ve-loat-13-cua-ra-vao-di-tich-kinh-thanh-hue-169240310204253508.htm Unaltered from source photo. Below is a picture taken in 1932 before many buildings were destroyed by war. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Hue, 1932 - La Ville Imperiale - Vue aerienne," 1932. Accessed via https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hu%C3%A9,_1932_%E2%80%93_La_Ville_Imp%C3%A9riale_%E2%80%93_Vue_a%C3%A9rienne.jpg CC Public Domain Mark 1.0 Altered from source photo. Gates and Observation Towers There are only four gates in the Imperial Citadel. The most important one is the Meridian Gate (Ngọ Môn), on the south side - see the picture below. Source: Multiple authors. "Hoàng Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated. April 22, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF Image source: Unknown photographer, "Ngọ Môn," 2021. Accessed via https://vnexpress.net/lau-ngu-phung-sau-8-nam-trung-tu-4221828.html Unaltered from souce photo. The Ngũ Phụng Pavilion, or Phoenix Pavilion, sits on top the Meridian Gate. It is majestic and splendid with its emerald and gold roofs and its vermillion columns and doors. It has two stories and one hundred columns. The magnificent structure is truly befitting its name. Below are pictures of the Phoenix Pavilion: the exterior and interior. Source: Multiple authors. "Ngọ Môn (Hoàng thành Huế)." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated October 15, 2023. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ng%E1%BB%8D_M%C3%B4n_(Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF) Image source: Unknown photographer, "Lầu Ngũ Phụng," 2024. Accessed via https://codohue.vn/ngo-mon-cong-chinh-di-vao-hoang-thanh-hue/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Bên trong lầu Ngũ Phụng," 2024. Accessed via https://codohue.vn/ngo-mon-cong-chinh-di-vao-hoang-thanh-hue/ Unaltered from source photo. Chương Đức Gate is on the west side. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Cửa Chương Đức," Year unknown. Accessed via https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/26/Gate_in_Imperial_City%2C_Hu%E1%BA%BF_%28II%29.jpg Altered from source photo. Hiền Nhơn Gate is on the east side. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Cửa Hiền Nhơn," 2018. Accessed via https://kienthuc.net.vn/kho-tri-thuc/ngam-bo-cua-dep-nhat-hoang-thanh-hue-988386.html#p-7 Altered from source photo. Hòa Bình Gate is on the north side. Its design is simpler than the other three gates'. I think, it was not deemed as significant as the other's, because the Imperial Citadel is facing southeast. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Cửa Hòa Bình," 2024. Accessed via https://wikimapia.org/8950861/vi/C%E1%BB%ADa-Ho%C3%A0-B%C3%ACnh#/photo/1841002 Unaltered from source photo. There are three Observation Towers near each gates on the east, west, and north sides. The one on the south side is the Phoenix Pavilion, the only one that sits directly on top of a gate. Below are the pictures of the Observation Tower near Hiền Nhơn Gate on the east side. One can enjoy tea and participate in various cultural events here. The one near the Chương Đức Gate on the west side is similar. Source: Unknown author. "Thi vị thú thưởng Trà ở Đông Khuyết Đài - Đại Nội Huế." DTiNews. Dân Trí. September 29, 2019. https://dantri.com.vn/doi-song/thi-vi-thu-thuong-tra-o-dong-khuyet-dai-dai-noi-hue-20190929095212678.htm Image source: Unknown creator, "Đông khuyết đài," 2013. Accessed via https://baoyenbai.com.vn/16/92930/Trung-tu-di-tich-Dong-Khuyet-dai---Dai-noi-Hue-.aspx Unaltered from source image. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Đông khuyết đài," Year unknown. Accessed via https://danangbest.com/dong-khuyet-dai-kho-tang-nghe-thuat-tai-co-do-hue.html Unaltered from source photo. Below is the Tứ Phương Vô Sự (which means Peace in Four Corners of the Realm) Pavilion near the North Gate. One can also enjoy tea and the view here just like the emperors of the past. Source: Unknown author, "Lầu Tứ Phương Vô Sự mở cửa đón khách trở lại." Thừa Thiên Huế Online. January 31, 2024. https://baothuathienhue.vn/van-hoa-nghe-thuat/thong-tin-van-hoa/lau-tu-phuong-vo-su-mo-cua-don-khach-tro-lai-137603.html Image source: Unknown photographer, "Lầu Tứ Phương Vô Sự," 2020. Accessed via https://laque.vn/lau-tu-phuong-vo-su-bac-khuyet-dai/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Trần Anh Đức, "Lầu Tứ Phương Vô Sự," Year unknown. Access via https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Pavillon_of_Four_Directions Unaltered from source photo. Worship Halls There are a total of five Worship Halls in the Imperial Citadel. On the southwest side are: Hiền Lâm Các, Thế Miếu, and Phụng Tiên Palace (Điện Phụng Tiên). On the southeast side are Thái Miếu and Triệu Miếu. They were built to worship various Nguyễn dynasty ancestors. Multiple authors. "Hoàng Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated April 22, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF Below is a picture of Hiền Lâm Các, Thế Miếu, and Hưng Miếu, in that order, looking north from above. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Khu vực Thế Miếu," Year unknown. Accessed via https://static.vinwonders.com/production/Nrwjr4jT-hue-imperial-city-2.jpg?_gl=1*1nskvx7*_gcl_au*MTkwMjUxMTY2Mi4xNzE5NjgxMjA0 Unaltered from source photo. Hiền Lâm Các and the Nine Dynastic Urns Hiền Lâm Pavilion is the Memorial Hall to observe the merits of the Emperors and Mandarins of the Nguyễn dynasty. It is located on the southwest side of the Imperial Citadel, looking north. In front of the Hall are the Nine Dynastic Urns. They were made of bronze and the castings were completed in 1837. The Urns were one of the few remarkable things, that were untouched from the up and down of this city history. Source: Multiple authors, "Hiền Lâm Các." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated October 10, 2021. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hi%E1%BB%83n_L%C3%A2m_c%C3%A1c Multiple authors, "Cửu Đỉnh (nhà Nguyễn)." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated February 13, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/C%E1%BB%ADu_%C4%90%E1%BB%89nh_(nh%C3%A0_Nguy%E1%BB%85n) Image source: Unknow photographer, "Hiền Lâm Các," 2022. Accessed by https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Thong-tin-du-dia-chi/tid/Hien-Lam-Cac/newsid/E3FB6046-FCAE-42C5-832D-D5C6F08C7E84/cid/4E568EE4-C8BC-4F08-8B97-706999B99B37 Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Hiền Lâm Các," 2022. Accessed by https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Thong-tin-du-dia-chi/tid/Hien-Lam-Cac/newsid/E3FB6046-FCAE-42C5-832D-D5C6F08C7E84/cid/4E568EE4-C8BC-4F08-8B97-706999B99B37 Unaltered from source photo. Thế Miếu and Hưng Miếu Thế Miếu, behind and opposite Hiền Lâm Pavilion, is purposed to worship the Emperors of the Nguyễn dynasty. Hưng Miếu, behind Thế Miếu, is purposed to worship the parents of Emperor Gia Long, the first Emperor of the dynasty. Emperor Gia Long's father did not become one of the Nguyễn Lords because the previous Lord's will, regarding the succession, was altered. Source: Multiple authors, "Trương Phúc Loan." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Lát updated January 15, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tr%C6%B0%C6%A1ng_Ph%C3%BAc_Loan Below are the pictures of Thế Miếu: from above, and the interior. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Thế Tổ Miếu," 2020. Accessed by http://visithue.vn/The-To-Mieu.html/?pid=MjAzMDd8Y3NkbGRs0 Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Thế Tổ Miếu," 2020. Accessed by https://khamphadisan.com.vn/the-to-mieu-noi-tho-phung-cac-vi-vua-trieu-nguyen/ Unaltered from source photo. Below are the pictures of Hưng Miếu: from above, the main hall, and the interior. It has been funded to be repaired in the near future. Image source: N. L., "Toàn cảnh di tích Hưng Miếu," 2024. Accessed by https://suckhoedoisong.vn/dien-mao-di-tich-trong-hoang-cung-hue-truoc-khi-tu-bo-tien-ty-169240718073457723.htm Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Hưng Miếu," 2020. Accessed by https://redsvn.net/chum-anh-hung-to-mieu-ngoi-mieu-dac-biet-cua-trieu-nguyen-o-hue2/ , Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Hưng Miếu," 2024. Accessed by https://suckhoedoisong.vn/dien-mao-di-tich-trong-hoang-cung-hue-truoc-khi-tu-bo-tien-ty-169240718073457723.htm Unaltered from source photo. Thái Miếu and Triệu Miếu Thái Miếu, on the southeast corner of the Imperial Citadel, is purposed to worship the nine Nguyễn Lords. Triệu Miếu, behind it, is purposed to worship Nguyễn Kim, the father of the first Nguyễn Lord, Nguyễn Hoàng. Nguyễn Kim was a Grand Mandarin of the Later Lê dynasty, who was mainly responsible for restoring it from the Mạc's. Source: Multiple authors, "Nguyễn Kim." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated May 29. 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nguy%E1%BB%85n_Kim Below are the pictures of Thái Miếu and Triệu Miếu. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Khu vực Thái Tổ Miếu," 2021. Accessed by https://vnexpress.net/hien-trang-thai-to-mieu-truoc-luc-trung-tu-4269994.html Unaltered from source photo. Thái Miếu is in need of restoring and it is currently in phase I of the process. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Thái Miếu," 2024. Accessed by https://codohue.vn/trieu-mieu-va-thai-mieu-noi-tho-cac-chua-nguyen/ Unaltered from source photo. Below are the pictures of Triệu Miếu, which was restored in 2016 (partially funded by the United States): the exterior and interior. Source: Unknown author. "Hoàn thành trùng tu Triệu Tổ tại cố đô Huế." toquoc.vn . Tổ Quốc. September 16, 2016. https://toquoc.vn/hoan-thanh-trung-tu-trieu-to-mieu-tai-co-do-hue-99156568.htm Image source: Kien Nguyễn, "Triệu Miếu," Year unknown. Accessed by https://codohue.vn/trieu-mieu-va-thai-mieu-noi-tho-cac-chua-nguyen/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Di tích Triệu Tổ miếu nhìn từ bên ngoài sau khi hoàn thành trùng tu," 2016. Accessed by https://tienphong.vn/hoan-thanh-tu-bo-mieu-tho-trieu-to-tinh-hoang-de-nguyen-kim-post901625.tpo Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Nội thất bên trong Triệu Tổ miếu - Đại nội Huế," 2016. Accessed by https://tienphong.vn/hoan-thanh-tu-bo-mieu-tho-trieu-to-tinh-hoang-de-nguyen-kim-post901625.tpo Unaltered from source photo. Phụng Tiên Palace Phụng Tiên Palace, behind Hưng Miếu, was purposed to worship the deceased kings and queens. It was the only place, where female members of the royal family were allowed to participate. They were not allowed to do so in the other four Worship Halls. The palace was destroyed in 1947. Today, only the main gate, and the wall screen behind it, were restored. Source: Unknown author. "Khám phá điện Phụng Tiên." Thừa Thiên Huế Online. November 26, 2023. https://baothuathienhue.vn/van-hoa-nghe-thuat/kham-pha-dien-phung-tien-135279.html Image source: Unknown photographer, "Điện Phụng Tiên," 2019. Accessed by https://dantri.com.vn/giai-tri/phuc-hoi-dien-phung-tien-bang-ky-thuat-ve-mau-tren-nen-vua-voi-xua-2019010907525609.htm#&gid=1&pid=1 Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Điện Phụng Tiên," 2021. Accessed by https://thanhnien.vn/dien-phung-tien.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Điện Phụng Tiên," 2019. Accessed by https://dantri.com.vn/giai-tri/phuc-hoi-dien-phung-tien-bang-ky-thuat-ve-mau-tren-nen-vua-voi-xua-2019010907525609.htm Unaltered from source image. Diên Thọ and Trường Sanh Palaces The Emperor's mother and grandmother resided in Diên Thọ and Trường Sanh Palaces. Diên Thọ Palace has a number of buildings. Below are the pictures of Diên Thọ Palace : from above, the main gate, Thọ Chi Môn, two of the buildings, the interior of one of the structures, and the garden . Source: Multiple authors. "Hoàng Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated April 22, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF Image source: Unknown photographer, "Cung Dien Thọ," 2017. Accessed via https://vnexpress.net/dai-noi-hue-noi-nhat-hoang-ghe-tham-co-gi-dac-biet-3547949.html#lg=gallery&slide=7 Altered from source photo. Image source: ST, "Cung Diên Thọ," 2018. Accessed via https://www.vntrip.vn/cam-nang/cung-dien-tho-hue-78979 Unaltered from source photo. Image source: ST, "Cung Diên Thọ," 2018. Accessed via https://www.vntrip.vn/cam-nang/cung-dien-tho-hue-78979 Unaltered from source photo. Image Source: Lưu Ly (thảo luận), "Lầu Tịnh Minh," 2008. Accessed via https://www.gpsmycity.com/attractions/cung-dien-tho-(dien-tho-palace)-51345.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Trần Anh Đức, "Nội thất trong cung Diên Thọ," Year unknown. Accessed via https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cung_Di%C3%AAn_Th%E1%BB%8D#/media/T%E1%BA%ADp_tin:N%E1%BB%99i_th%E1%BA%A5t_cung_Di%C3%AAn_Th%E1%BB%8D.jpg Unaltered from source photo. Image source: ST, "Cung Diên Thọ," 2018. Accessed via https://www.vntrip.vn/cam-nang/cung-dien-tho-hue-78979 Unaltered from source photo. Trường Sanh Palace is behind Diên Thọ Palace, in the northwest corner of the Imperial Citadel. Below are the pictures of the palace : from above, its ornate main gate, and the main buildings. The design of the gate is grand and exquisite. Unknown photographer, "Cung Trường Sanh," 2017. Accessed via https://vnexpress.net/dai-noi-hue-noi-nhat-hoang-ghe-tham-co-gi-dac-biet-3547949.html#lg=gallery&slide=7 Altered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Trường An Môn," 2017. Accessed via https://hoiandanang.com/listing/cung-truong-sanh-hue/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Cung Trường Sanh," 2017. Accessed via https://hoiandanang.com/listing/cung-truong-sanh-hue/ Unaltered from source photo. Royal Treasury The Royal Treasury is behind Triệu Miếu. Below is a picture of a derelict building on this site. There is no current plan to restore it. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Phủ Nội Vụ," 2019. Accessed via https://vnexpress.net/kien-truc-phap-hon-100-nam-trong-dai-noi-hue-3888388.html Unaltered from source photo. Royal Garden Cơ Hạ The Royal Garden Cơ Hạ is one of the two gardens in the Imperial Citadel. The other is in the Forbidden Citadel. The Garden was neglected for many years and was not restored until 2012 and completed in 2014. Below are some of the pictures of what it looks like today. Source: Unknow author, "Vườn Cơ Hạ - Nơi tụ hội của "kỳ hoa dị thảo" bốn phương." Thư viện Tổng hợp Thừa Thiên Huế. July 12, 2021. https://thuvien.thuathienhue.gov.vn/?gd=9&cn=28&tc=14106 Image source: Unknown photographer, "Vườn Cơ Hạ," Year unknown. Accessed via https://khamphahue.com.vn/Du-lich/Chi-tiet/tid/Co-Ha-Vien.html/pid/2428/cid/81 Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Thanh Toàn, "Vườn Cơ Hạ," 2019. Accessed via https://dulichhue.biz/vuon-co-ha-trong-kinh-thanh-hue.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Vườn Cơ Hạ," 2016. Accessed via https://baoxaydung.com.vn/khai-quat-khao-co-tai-di-tich-vuon-co-ha-hoang-thanh-hue-187508.html Unaltered from source photo. Thái Hòa Palace Thái Hòa Palace, the Throne Hall, is the most important structure in the Imperial Citadel. In this hall, thirteen coronations took place, from Emperor Gia Long to Bảo Đại. It is situated behind the Meridian Gate (Ngọ Môn). The palace is currently being restored and its completion is expected to be toward the end of November of 2024. I could hardly wait to see the result. Below are some of its pictures : from the Meridian Gate looking north (during restoration), looking south, and its interior (before being restored). Source: Multiple authors. "Điện Thái Hòa (Hoàng thành Huế)." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated November 28, 2022. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%90i%E1%BB%87n_Th%C3%A1i_H%C3%B2a_(Ho%C3%A0ng_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF) Unknown author. "Thừa Thiên Huế: Điện Thái Hòa sẽ mở cửa đón khách tham quan vào tháng 11." Vietnam Travel. August 12, 2024. https://vntravel.org.vn/thua-thien-hue-dien-thai-hoa-se-mo-cua-don-khach-tham-quan-vao-thang-11-a5246.html Image source: Unknown photographer, "Điện Thái Hòa," 2024. Accessed via https://baodienbienphu.com.vn/tin-tuc/du-lich/212987/dien-thai-hoa-va-dien-kien-trung-tai-hue-lan-dau-mo-cua-don-khach-dip-tet Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Nguyễn Do, "Điện Thái Hòa," 2024. Accessed via https://plo.vn/dien-mao-dien-thai-hoa-noi-dang-quang-cua-13-vua-trieu-nguyen-sau-hon-2-nam-trung-tu-post802564.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Pham Hieu, "Bên trong Điện Thái Hòa," 2013. Accessed via https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:B%C3%AAn_trong_%C4%91i%E1%BB%87n_Th%C3%A1i_H%C3%B2a(1).jpg Unaltered from source photo. The Government of Việt Nam, its skilled craftsmen and talented artists, have been lovingly restored many of the damaged structures inside the Huế Citadel, that we see and enjoy today. Hopefully, it will be restored completely to its former splendor, in the near future. I hope you find my blog informative and enjoyable. Please look for Part 3 of my blog.

Updated 9/21/2024 I find the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huế Citadel, to be fascinating. Many of the monuments inside it represent the best of the classical Vietnamese architecture. Numerous palaces in the Imperial Citadel (Hoàng Thành) were destroyed or heavily damaged during the war, from 1945 to 1975, and are only being rebuilt or repaired in the last twenty five years. I write this blog because I want to share my discovery about this special place with others, who wish to know more about it. I have included many details about this Citadel, which may not be interesting to a casual reader, but I feel are necessary for the sake of completeness. The important items are in BOLD and the rest can be glanced over. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Ngọ Môn", 2024, Accessed via https://wiki-travel.com.vn/Uploads/picture/camnhi-242411112435-dia-diem-du-lich-hue-di-tich-van-hoa-lich-su-4.jpg The body of work that makes up Wikitravel—text, images, audio, video, etc.—is free for anyone to use, as long as they comply with our copyleft . Altered from source photo. Capital Citadel (Kinh Thành), the outermost ring Huế Citadel was Việt Nam's former capital, from 1802 to 1945, during the rule of the Nguyễn dynasty, the last monarchy. It was built on the location of Phú Xuân, a smaller citadel, which was the capital of the domain of the nine Nguyễn Lords from 1687 to 1712, and then from 1739 to 1774. During the brief Tây Sơn dynasty, Phú Xuân was again selected as the capital, but this time, for a unified Việt Nam, from 1788 to 1802. Source: Multiple unknown authors. "Kinh Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated July 2, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinh_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF Multiple unknown authors, "Nhà Tây Sơn." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated January 3, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nh%C3%A0_T%C3%A2y_S%C6%A1n The Citadel, along with its many structures inside, took almost thirty years to complete, from 1805 to 1832. More than 100,000 civilians and soldiers were used at one point, during the construction. Upon completion, it occupied approximately 1,285 acres and had more than 6.2 miles in circumference. The Citadel was grand and splendid, befitting to be the seat of power for the Nguyễn family, whose history was so intertwined with that of Việt Nam's, for almost four hundred years, from 1558 to 1945. Source: Author unknown. "Công cuộc xây dựng kinh đô dưới triều Nguyễn." Dư địa chí. Cổng Thông Tin Điện Tử Thừa Thiên Huế. https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Thong-tin-du-dia-chi/tid/Cong-cuoc-xay-dung-kinh-do-Hue-duoi-trieu-Nguyen/newsid/213C554A-4BA2-45A7-808E-354FE9B39891/cid/F0BB6DEB-C54A-4C2B-A00A-CB0A7C120763 Multiple unknown authors, "Chúa Nguyễn." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated June 3, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nh%C3%A0_T%C3%A2y_S%C6%A1n The citadel has three rings of walls and faces the southeast. The outermost ring, surrounded by moats, contains the capital. The second ring, also surrounded by moats, contains the Imperial Citadel (Hoàng Thành). The third ring contains the Forbidden Citadel (Tử Cấm Thành). No one was allowed to enter it without the invitation from the Emperor. It is interesting to think that 99.99% of the population would never be allowed to set foot in here before 1945. Source: Multiple unknown authors. "Kinh Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated July 2, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinh_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF   Author unknown. "Công cuộc xây dựng kinh đô dưới triều Nguyễn." Dư địa chí. Cổng Thông Tin Điện Tử Thừa Thiên Huế. https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Thong-tin-du-dia-chi/tid/Cong-cuoc-xay-dung-kinh-do-Hue-duoi-trieu-Nguyen/newsid/213C554A-4BA2-45A7-808E-354FE9B39891/cid/F0BB6DEB-C54A-4C2B-A00A-CB0A7C120763 Image source: "Huế Citadel," 2024. Accessed via https://www.google.com/maps/@16.4790713,107.57265,4169m/data=!3m1!1e3?entry=ttu Altered from source static image. The outermost enclosure has thirteen gates: eleven for land routes and two for water routes. One of the land routes leads to an abandoned fort on the northeast corner of the citadel and the gate is currently not being used nor restored. In the Vietnamese culture and also that of China's, the number thirteen is not considered to be unlucky, which is different than in the Western world. Source: Multiple unknown authors. "Kinh Thành Huế." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated July 2, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinh_th%C3%A0nh_Hu%E1%BA%BF   Hà Oai. "Trần Bình Môn Kinh thành Huế như bị lãng quên." Tạp chí Người Hà Nội Online. March 28, 2024. https://nguoihanoi.vn/tran-binh-mon-kinh-thanh-hue-nhu-bi-lang-quen-83605.html In the below picture, the locations of Hữu Gate (for one of the land routes), and the gate for one of the water routes, are shown. Both are on the west side of the Citadel, marked with arrows. The gate location for the unused land route, on the northeast corner of the Citadel, is also marked. Image source: Unknown creator, "13 cửa ra vào kinh thành Huế", 2020, Accessed via https://dulichhue.biz/13-cua-ra-vao-kinh-thanh-hue.html Altered from source image. Below is Hữu Gate on the southwestern side of the Citadel (see above for location). All of the remaining ten gates, for the land routes, are currently in use, and they all look similar to the one below. Some were damaged in 1953, due to flooding, and in 1968, due to war, but they all have been restored, recently. Source: Unknown . "Kinh thành Huế có bao nhiêu cửa thành?" baothainguyen.vn . Thái Nguyên. May 30, 2021. https://baothainguyen.vn/que-huong-dat-nuoc/202105/kinh-thanh-hue-co-bao-nhieu-cua-thanh-367E13C/ Image source: Unknown photographer, "Cửa Hữu", 2021, Accessed via https://thanhnien.vn/kinh-thanh-hue-co-bao-nhieu-cua-thanh-1851072181.htm Altered from source photo. Below is the gate for the water route on the west side of the Citadel (see above for location). It is similar to the one for the water route on the east side. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Tây thành thủy quan", 2024, Accessed via https://laodong.vn/photo/cua-ra-cua-kinh-thanh-hue-co-y-nghia-lich-su-dang-bi-lang-quen-1310244.ldo Unaltered from source photo. Today, people can walk on top of the Citadel wall, in certain sections. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Lối đi bộ lên thượng thành", 2023, Accessed via https://vnexpress.net/hue-nhin-tu-loi-di-bo-tren-thuong-thanh-4573246.html Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Đỗ Trưởng, "Những khẩu súng thần công được trưng bày trên Kỳ đài Huế", 2023, Accessed via https://vnexpress.net/hue-nhin-tu-loi-di-bo-tren-thuong-thanh-4573246.html Unaltered from source photo. The Flag Tower (Kỳ Đài) is located inside the citadel, on the south side, and in front of the Meridian Gate (Ngọ Môn), the main entrance to the Imperial Citadel. The original flag pole was made of wood, standing 105 feet tall. The current one is made out of reinforced concrete, standing 121 feet high. Source: Multiple authors. "Kỳ Đài (Huế)." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated April 4, 2024. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%E1%BB%B3_%C4%91%C3%A0i_(Hu%E1%BA%BF) Image source: Unknown photographer, "Ky Dai Truong", Unknown year, Accessed via https://edition.itourism.vn/en/resources/going-back-in-time-with-the-complex-of-hue-monuments-ct145.html Unaltered from source photo. Phú Văn Pavilion (Phú Văn Lâu), was the place, where Royal Edicts were announced. It is located on the south side, beyond the moats, and in front of the Flag Tower. This landmark is mentioned in a number of books and songs about Huế. Source: Multiple authors. "Phú Văn Lâu." Wikipedia tiếng Việt. vi.wikipedia.org . Last updated October 10, 2022. https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phu_V%C4%83n_l%C3%A2u Image source: Silva Xiquinho, "Phu Văn Lâu," 2017, Accessed via https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Phu_V%C4%83n_L%C3%A2u_(03-10-17)_II.jpg The body of work that makes up Wikitravel—text, images, audio, video, etc.—is free for anyone to use, as long as they comply with our copyleft . Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Phu Văn Lâu," 2021, Accessed via https://phongnhatourist.com/phu-van-lau-hue-noi-ghi-dau-nhieu-su-kien-lich-su.html Unaltered from source photo. Two notable structures inside the Huế Citadel but outside of the Imperial enclosure, are the Tàng Thơ Royal Archive (Tàng Thơ Lâu) and Lake Tịnh Tâm, the site of a former royal garden. The Royal Archive was built in 1825 under Emperor Minh Mạng's reign, to store important court documents. Today, it is one of the national repositories. Many scholars have come here, since the early twentieth century, to study its documents on history and culture. Source: Unknown author. "Lầu Tàng Thơ - Hồ Học Hải." Cổng Thông Tin Điện Tử Thừa Thiên Huế. Published date unknown. https://thuathienhue.gov.vn/Du-kh%C3%A1ch/Du-l%E1%BB%8Bch/Th%C3%B4ng-tin-chi-ti%E1%BA%BFt/tid/Lau-Tang-Tho-Ho-Hoc-Hai/newsid/181E9C2A-0FEE-4416-9540-AD0800A0CA4F/cid/4E568EE4-C8BC-4F08-8B97-706999B99B37 Image source: Unknown photographer, "Tàng Thơ Lâu," 2021. Accessed via https://khamphadisan.com.vn/lau-tang-tho-thu-vien-co-luu-tru-tai-lieu-quoc-gia-thoi-nguyen/ Unaltered from source photo. Image source: Unknown photographer, "Hồ Tịnh Tâm," 2023. Accessed via https://www.archives.org.vn/gioi-thieu-tai-lieu-nghiep-vu/doi-net-ve-ho-tinh-tam-chon-tieu-dao-cua-hoang-gia-trieu-nguyen.htm Altered from source photo The Government of Việt Nam, its skilled craftsmen and talented artists, have been lovingly restored many of the damaged structures inside the Huế Citadel, that we see and enjoy today. Hopefully, it will be restored completely to its former splendor, in the near future. I hope you find my blog informative and enjoyable. Please look for Part 2 of my blog.