Khai Dinh Tomb: A Perfect Blend of East and West
Khai Dinh Tomb is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hue, Vietnam. Located in the city of Hue, this famous historical site is a great example of how East meets West in terms of architecture. Built between 1920 and 1931, this tomb is also known as the last of the Nguyen Dynasty’s Royal Tombs.
Overview of Khai Dinh Tomb
The Khai Dinh Tomb is a monument built in the honor of Emperor Khai Dinh, the 12th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty who reigned from 1916 to 1925. It was designed by a French architect, who combined traditional Vietnamese and Chinese elements with European influences. The tomb is built on a hillside, surrounded by high walls, and consists of three main parts: the main entrance, the terrace and the tomb itself.
The main entrance is a large, ornate gate built in the European style, featuring statues of two mythical animals. The terrace is a long, curving pathway with two sets of five steps, which leads up to the tomb. The tomb itself is a large structure, built in the traditional Vietnamese style, with five tiers and a pyramid-shaped roof. Inside the tomb is a statue of Emperor Khai Dinh, surrounded by statues of his consorts and courtiers.
Features of Khai Dinh Tomb
One of the most impressive features of this tomb is its intricate decoration. The exterior of the tomb is covered in carved stone and ceramic tiles, which feature scenes from Vietnamese and Chinese mythology. Inside the tomb, the walls are decorated with sculptures and paintings depicting Emperor Khai Dinh’s life and accomplishments. The ceiling is made of stained glass, and the floors are made of marble.
The other thing that makes the Khai Dinh Tomb special is its unique blend of East and West. The tomb is a perfect example of how traditional Vietnamese and Chinese elements can be successfully combined with European influences. The result is a beautiful and impressive structure that still stands today, and is a reminder of the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Visiting Khai Dinh Tomb
The Khai Dinh Tomb is open to visitors every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entrance fee is very reasonable, and the tomb is a great place to spend some time exploring. The views from the terrace are spectacular, and it is a great place to take some photos. There is also a museum nearby where you can learn more about the history of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Visiting the Khai Dinh Tomb is a great way to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty and to get a unique glimpse into the history of Vietnam. The unique combination of East and West, and the intricate decorations, make this site a must-see in Hue.
Conclusion
The Khai Dinh Tomb is a beautiful and impressive monument in Hue, Vietnam. It is a great example of how traditional Vietnamese and Chinese elements can be combined with European influences, resulting in an amazing structure that still stands today. Visiting the Khai Dinh Tomb is a great way to learn about the history of the Nguyen Dynasty and to get a unique glimpse into the culture and history of Vietnam.