The Magnificent Summer Palace of Bao Dai, the Last Emperor of Vietnam
Nestled in the beautiful rolling hills of central Vietnam, the Summer Palace of Bao Dai is an awe-inspiring sight. Built in 1933 by the last emperor of Vietnam, Bao Dai, the palace was his private residence and the site of his coronation. The palace is now a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of Vietnam’s last emperor.
About Bao Dai, the Last Emperor of Vietnam
Bao Dai was the last emperor of Vietnam and the 13th king of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled from 1802 to 1945. Born in 1913, Bao Dai was the son of Emperor Khai Dinh and Queen Tu Cung. He was chosen to succeed his father upon his death in 1925 and was crowned the 13th king of the Nguyen Dynasty in 1926.
Bao Dai was a ruler with a passion for modernizing Vietnam. He made several attempts to introduce reforms to the country, including those designed to reduce poverty and improve education. He also introduced the first constitution of Vietnam, which laid the foundations for the modern state.
Bao Dai abdicated the throne in 1945 and went into exile. He eventually settled in France, where he died in 1997.
A Look Inside Bao Dai’s Summer Palace
Bao Dai’s Summer Palace, or Dai Nam Quoc Tu, was built in 1933 and served as the Emperor’s private residence during the summer months. Located in the town of Dalat, the palace is surrounded by picturesque hills and forests. The palace is a mix of French and Vietnamese architecture, with a variety of colorful buildings and courtyards.
The palace complex consists of several buildings, including the guesthouse, the throne room, the royal bedroom, and the garden. The guesthouse contains a collection of antiques and artworks collected by Bao Dai during his reign. The throne room is the most impressive, with its carved wooden walls and ornate furniture. The royal bedroom is decorated with silk and velvet furnishings, and the garden is filled with exotic plants and flowers.
Visiting Bao Dai’s Summer Palace
Today, Bao Dai’s Summer Palace is a major tourist attraction in Vietnam. Visitors can explore the palace’s buildings and courtyards, as well as the many artifacts that remain from the emperor’s reign. The palace is open to the public every day and visitors can take guided tours of the complex.
The palace is located in the town of Dalat, which is about a three-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. The best way to get to the palace is by car, but there are also buses that run from Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat.
Conclusion
Bao Dai’s Summer Palace is a stunning example of French and Vietnamese architecture and a reminder of the last emperor of Vietnam. Visitors can explore the palace’s many buildings and courtyards, as well as the artifacts and artworks that remain from Bao Dai’s reign. The palace is a must-see attraction in Vietnam and is a great day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.