Hue Monuments Complex and History
The Complex of Hue Monuments is not only a famous tourist destination but also a world cultural heritage, preserving the unique historical, cultural and architectural values of the Nguyen Dynasty – the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage in 1993, this complex not only holds valuable historical values but is also the pride of the Vietnamese people. Let's learn about the history and unique beauty of this complex of monuments.
1. History of the Formation of the Ancient Capital of Hue
The Complex of Hue Monuments is the political, cultural and religious center of the Nguyen Dynasty, built from the beginning of the 19th century. In 1802, Nguyen Anh (later King Gia Long) chose Hue as the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty after ascending the throne, marking the beginning of a dynasty that lasted more than 140 years.
With the advice of architects, King Gia Long and the following kings built the Hue Imperial City following the architectural model of Beijing (China), combined with traditional Vietnamese architectural styles. The Imperial City complex includes palaces, temples, mausoleums and military structures of large scale and sophistication in design.
2. Structure of Hue Monuments Complex
The Hue Monuments Complex is divided into three main areas, each with its own role and meaning, reflecting the power and dignity of the Nguyen Dynasty:
Hue Imperial City
Hue Citadel was the political center of the Nguyen Dynasty, where the king and the royal family lived and worked. The citadel was built in a square shape with a system of solid ramparts, surrounded by a moat and large gates such as Ngo Mon and Hien Nhon Gate. Inside the citadel were palaces such as Thai Hoa Palace – where important court ceremonies took place, Forbidden Purple City – the residence of the king and the royal family, along with many other important architectural works.
Tombs of the Nguyen Kings
The tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty kings are unique architectural works, built with a subtle combination of nature and architecture. Each tomb bears the mark of each king, reflecting their lifestyle and philosophy of death. Among them, Minh Mang Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb are the tombs that stand out with their grandeur and sophistication in design.
Imperial City
The Imperial Citadel is the area surrounding the Forbidden City and the royal court, where the political and diplomatic activities of the Nguyen Dynasty took place. The Imperial Citadel was designed in traditional architecture with structures such as Ngo Mon – the main gate to the Imperial Citadel, The Mieu – where the Nguyen Dynasty kings are worshiped, and Hung Mieu – where the Nguyen Dynasty ancestors are worshiped.
3. Unique Architecture of the Ancient Capital of Hue
The architecture of the ancient capital of Hue is a harmonious combination of classical oriental architectural style and traditional Vietnamese construction art. The architectural works here are built with sophistication in every detail, from the arrangement of palaces, mausoleums, temples to decorative motifs, carvings on wood and stone.
The highlight of the architecture of the ancient capital of Hue is the combination of man and nature. The tombs of the Nguyen kings were built in locations with beautiful landscapes, majestic mountains and poetic rivers. This reflects the philosophy of life of the ancient Vietnamese people, who always valued harmony with nature and believed that life after death continues in another world.
Colors in Hue architecture also have profound meanings. Buildings in the Imperial City often have yellow tiled roofs – a symbol of royalty and supreme power, while buildings for mandarins and religion have blue or red tiled roofs, representing solemnity and dignity.
4. Hue Ancient Capital and Historical Values
The ancient capital of Hue was not only the political center of the Nguyen Dynasty but also the place where many important historical events in Vietnamese history took place. For more than 140 years, Hue was the place where the Nguyen Kings ruled, governed the country and conducted diplomatic activities with neighboring countries. This is also the place where important documents and records on the history, culture, art and religion of this dynasty are kept.
After the Nguyen Dynasty ended in 1945, Hue continued to be one of the important cultural and historical centers of Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, Hue witnessed fierce battles, especially during the Tet Offensive in 1968, which damaged many architectural works. However, with the restoration and preservation efforts of the government and the international community, the Hue Monuments Complex has been restored to some of its original beauty.
5. Hue Ancient Capital – World Cultural Heritage
In 1993, the Complex of Hue Monuments was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site thanks to its unique historical, cultural and architectural values. This is the pride not only of the people of Hue but also of the entire Vietnamese nation.
Preserving and promoting the value of the ancient capital of Hue is not only the responsibility of the authorities but also the effort of the community and tourists. Projects to preserve and restore relics have been implemented, aiming to preserve intact the precious cultural and historical values for future generations. In addition, traditional festivals and artistic activities such as the Hue Festival are also held annually, contributing to promoting the beauty and value of this heritage to international friends.
Historical site
The Complex of Hue Monuments is a symbol of Vietnamese history and culture, preserving the precious values of the Nguyen Dynasty. With its unique architecture, rich history and profound cultural significance, Hue is not only an attractive tourist destination but also a world cultural heritage that needs to be preserved and promoted.
Come visit the ancient capital of Hue to admire its ancient beauty, learn about the glorious history of the Nguyen Dynasty and feel the harmony between man and nature through its wonderful architectural works. The ancient capital of Hue will surely bring you memorable experiences and pride in national culture.
