Oct19: After starting Day 7 of our “Vietnam & The Lost City Tour” at the 7th floor restaurant for an amazing breakfast spread at the Vinpearl, we met our local guide “Dai” – nicknamed “Mr Big”. “dai” means “big” in Vietnamese. Mr Big was tiny, even by Vietnamese standards!
We all boarded the 19-seater coach and made our way to the Hue Citadel, a ‘UNESCO World Heritage Site’. Nestled along the banks of the Perfume River, the Hue Citadel stands as a magnificent symbol of the country’s imperial legacy. Built in the early 19th century by Emperor Gia Long, this sprawling fortress served as the political, cultural, and religious centre of the Nguyen Dynasty.
As we entered the old city through the ancient city gate with a bridge over the moat, we were transported back in time to an era of regal splendour and dynastic power. The citadel’s intricate architecture and imposing ramparts reflect the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial past, with its sprawling complex encompassing a vast array of palaces, temples, and administrative buildings.
The Hue Citadel is also home to several notable landmarks, including the imposing Ngo Mon Gate, the iconic flag tower, and the revered Thien Mu Pagoda, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
One of the citadel’s most iconic features is the Imperial City, a walled enclosure within the fortress that housed the emperor’s residence and the royal court. Here, we wandered through the meticulously restored palaces, pavilions, and gardens, marvelling at the exquisite craftmanship and intricate detailing that adorned each structure. We then boarded a wooden twin hulled boat for a half hour cruise on the Perfume River.
For history enthusiasts and cultural connoisseurs alike, a visit to the Hue Citadel is a journey through Vietnam’s illustrious past, offering a captivating glimpse into the country’s imperial heritage and the enduring legacy of its rulers.
