The Splendor of a French-Designed Gate in Hanoi’s Barracks

After an extensive restoration, the majestic historical site linked to the iconic August Revolution in Hanoi has been returned to its former glory.

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Situated adjacent to the recently inaugurated Ho Guom Theater, the Bao An Binh Barrack Gate stands as a cherished historical artifact from the momentous August 1945 Revolutionary General Uprising in Hanoi.

The restoration of the Bao An Binh Barrack relic was completed in July 2023.

The barracks was meticulously crafted in the late 19th century by esteemed French architect Henri Vildieu. Renowned for his architectural prowess, Vildieu also spearheaded the construction of prominent structures in Hanoi during the French colonial era, including the Presidential Palace (1900-1906), Supreme Court, Hoa Lo Prison, and various others.

The camp formerly served as the garrison for a force of 1,000 French blue-belted militiamen known as the provincial guards or garde indigene. These guards were responsible for maintaining internal order and security in Vietnam prior to August 19, 1945.

Historical Monument

On one side of this monument hangs an illustrated plaque that commemorates the significant events that took place here.

This site once housed the Bao An Binh Barracks in the year 1945. On August 19th of that same year, the courageous Vietnamese revolutionary forces successfully disarmed the enemy and claimed occupation of this strategic position.

The Bao An Binh Camp Gate holds immense historical significance, as it stands as a pivotal witness to a defining moment in Vietnamese history.

The monument, once restored to its original state, has become a focal point of interest among both local residents and visitors from around the world in Hanoi.

The gate is located next to the newly built Ho Guom Theater. Photos: Ngoc Tu
The historical site is located on Hang Bai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
The success of the August Revolution in 1945 is associated with this historical relic.
As its name suggests, Bao An Binh was a French military barrack before 1945.
The phrase “garde indigene” means “blue-belted militiaman, provincial guard”
The gate resembles the entrance of a temple in Vietnamese architecture.
Oriental legend’s sacred blue dragon ornament on the gate is almost intact.
The gate is the only remnant of the vast Garde Indigene barracks of the past.
The sign records the historic milestone of the revolution on August 19, 1945.
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