Introduction to Kien Trung Tower
Located in the Forbidden City area, part of the Imperial City of Hue, Kien Trung Tower is a unique architectural work, associated with the final period of the Nguyen Dynasty. Although it no longer retains its original shape due to war and time, this relic is still an important mark in the historical and cultural flow of the Hue capital.
History of formation
Kien Trung Tower was built under the reign of King Khai Dinh around 1921-1923, and is one of the typical works showing the fusion of Eastern and Western architecture. This work was once used as a residence and workplace for King Khai Dinh, and later also the residence of King Bao Dai and Queen Nam Phuong in the final years of the Nguyen Dynasty.
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During the war, especially during the resistance war against the French, Kien Trung Palace was severely damaged. Up to now, the building is in the process of restoration to restore the inherent beauty of a unique royal building.
Unique architecture
Kien Trung Palace is a harmonious combination of Asian and European architectural styles, reflecting the special aesthetic taste of King Khai Dinh. The building has two floors with elaborate decorative motifs, clearly influenced by French architecture, while still retaining the Hue royal palace features with royal tiled roofs and characteristic dragon motifs.
Inside Kien Trung Palace, there were exquisite frescoes, ceramic decorations, and luxurious gilded and inlaid porcelain details. The interior space is designed in Western European style with stained glass doors and classic patterned tiled floors, bringing a beauty that is both regal and modern compared to that period.
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Experience when coming to Kien Trung Palace
Although the construction is still under restoration, when entering this area, visitors can still feel the rich history and majestic atmosphere of the royal palace. Walking along the Imperial Citadel, through relics such as Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, and then to the Forbidden City, visitors will see Kien Trung Palace as a special architectural highlight, completely different from the traditional constructions of the Nguyen Dynasty.
If you have the opportunity to come to Hue in the fall, when the gentle sunlight shines down on the mossy walls of the Imperial Citadel, you will feel the nostalgia and poetic beauty of this place. The silence and antiquity of this relic seem to bring us back to the golden days of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Tourism and conservation potential
Kien Trung Palace is an important part of the restoration process of Hue Imperial Citadel, contributing to recreating the appearance of the ancient royal palace. When this work is fully restored, it will become an attractive tourist destination, helping visitors better understand the royal lifestyle, architectural art and cultural exchange in the late Nguyen Dynasty.
With investment in conservation, Kien Trung Palace promises to become a special highlight in the Complex of Hue Monuments, attracting those who love history and royal architecture.
Kien Trung Palace is not only a relic but also a historical witness to changes over the centuries. If you have the opportunity to visit Hue, take some time to explore this place to feel the splendor of a bygone era, as well as the efforts of those who are preserving this precious cultural heritage.
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CREDIT:
- Photography: Luan Nguyen - Content: Giang Huynh - Design: Phuong Nguyen