Home Dining The Hue Imperial Citadel: Unlocking the Four Gates to a Majestic Past

The Hue Imperial Citadel: Unlocking the Four Gates to a Majestic Past

The Imperial Citadel of Hue, a majestic complex in Central Vietnam, took almost three decades to reach its full splendor. Construction began in 1804, but it was not until 1833 that Emperor Minh Mang's vision was truly realized with the completion of 147 magnificent structures, each a testament to his reign.

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20 August, 2024

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Ngọ Môn, the largest gate of the Hue Imperial Citadel, faces south. This gate held a ceremonial purpose, used only by the king and for receiving envoys. It stands as a testament to the architecture of the Nguyen Dynasty within the Complex of Hue monuments.

On August 30, 1945, King Bao Dai, the last king of the Vietnamese feudal dynasty, abdicated the throne at Ngọ Môn Palace. He relinquished the symbols of kingship—the seal, the Emperor’s treasure, and the sword of military authority—to the representatives of the Provisional Government.

Despite being the main gate, Ngọ Môn was not frequently used due to its ceremonial nature. It remained closed except for special occasions when the King entered or left the Imperial Citadel with his entourage or welcomed foreign envoys.

Above the main gate stands the Lầu Ngũ Phụng, a two-floored pavilion built upon an ironwood frame with 100 pillars. The number 100 is believed to symbolize the harmony of Yin and Yang, or the power of a hundred families.

The roof tiles feature various creatures to ward off evil. The main hall is accompanied by side pavilions for court members. From here, the emperor would observe troop movements and receive homage from his subjects.

Hiển Nhân Môn, located on the east side of the Hue Imperial Citadel, served as the entrance and exit for mandarins and men. Built in 1805 under King Gia Long, it was decorated with porcelain pieces during the reign of King Minh Mang in 1833. The gate was restored under King Khai Dinh but was destroyed by bombardment during the war in 1968.

After 1975, Hiển Nhân Môn was restored to its original state and now serves as an exit for tourists visiting the Imperial Citadel.

Chương Đức Môn, located on the west side of the Imperial Citadel, served as the entrance and exit for female mandarins. It also functioned as a protective gate for the royal court and family.

Chương Đức Môn boasts three floors with multiple compartments, each adorned with paintings and unique artwork. This decorative style is characteristic of the vestiges of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Hòa Bình Môn, the northern gate of the Imperial Citadel, was reserved for the king’s leisure outings. Its structure is quite unique, taking the form of a three-door brick building with only one floor.

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