Nestled in the heart of Hue City, Long An Palace stands as a breathtaking testament to the artistic brilliance of the Nguyen Dynasty. This architectural marvel, now the main gallery of Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities, offers visitors a mesmerizing journey through Vietnam’s rich cultural and architectural history.
Overview of Long An Palace
Constructed during Emperor Thieu Tri’s reign, Long An Palace is a masterpiece of wooden architecture that spans an impressive 1,000 square meters. Its unique double-roofed design, known as “trung luong trung thiem,” showcases an extraordinary blend of structural innovation and artistic expression.
Distinctive features:
- Intricate wooden frame with 1,155 decorative “boxes”
- Elaborate carvings featuring Chinese poems and blessings
- Unique roof design with eight carved dragon motifs
- Exotic materials like bone, ivory, and pearl used in decorations
The palace transcends traditional architectural boundaries, seamlessly merging architecture, decoration, poetry, and ideology. Each element tells a story, from the skillfully carved dragon statues to the meticulously arranged Chinese characters that adorn its walls.
How to get to Long An Palace
- Nearest landmark: Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities
- Transportation options: Taxi/ Motorbike rental/ Guided tour with Hue Smile Travel
Address: 3 Le Truc, Phu Hau, Hue city
Things to Know
| Opening Hours: | 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily Closed on Mondays for maintenance |
| Entrance Fee: | Adults: 150,000 VND (approximately $6 USD) Students/Seniors: 75,000 VND (with valid ID) |
| Visitor Notes: | Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat February to April: Ideal weather conditions |
Discover the magic of Hue’s royal past with Hue Smile Travel – Your gateway to Vietnam’s historical wonders!
