Dien Tho Residence

Historic Building in Hue

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo

The Dien Tho Residence, originally constructed in 1804, served as the apartments and audience hall for the Queen Mothers of the Nguyen Dynasty within the Imperial City of Huế. This partially ruined yet stunning complex provides a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of the era. The residence, located in the northeastern part of the Imperial City, is a blend of Vietnamese and French architectural styles, reflecting the evolving tastes of the Nguyen court.

The audience hall within the residence now houses an exhibition that showcases photos illustrating its former use, along with a display of beautifully embroidered royal garments, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. The residence later became the private abode of Emperor Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam, and the downstairs reception rooms are currently arranged with period furniture, recreating the ambiance of the 1930s when the palace was still in use.

Just outside the main building, a pleasure pavilion overlooking a lily pond has been transformed into a charming café, making it a delightful spot for a refreshment stop while exploring the historic site. The Dien Tho Residence remains a valuable and evocative part of the Imperial City, offering insight into the lives of the Nguyen dynasty’s royal women and their influence on Vietnam’s history.

The Dien Tho Residence appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hue!

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