🏯 Hue Citadel: Ancient Walls, Iconic Flag Tower & Sacred Cannons

🛡️ The Citadel Walls & Flag Tower

Hue’s majestic Citadel, a testament to Vietnam’s imperial past, still stands strong today with its 10-kilometer-long fortified walls mostly intact. At the forefront of this architectural marvel is the towering Flag Tower (Cot Co, also called Ky Dai – “The King’s Knight”), a symbol of resilience and national pride. First raised in 1807, the tower is built from three brick terraces and crowned by a soaring flagpole that proudly flies the Vietnamese flag.

🔟 There are ten historic gates leading into the Citadel. Just beyond the eastern Ngan Gate, near the flag tower, lies a wide parade ground flanked by the legendary Nine Sacred Cannons. These bronze masterpieces, forged in the early 19th century, symbolize the four seasons and the five essential elements: 🌍 Earth, 🔥 Fire, ⚙️ Metal, 🌲 Wood, and 💧 Water.

🏰 Inside the Imperial Citadel: Layers of History

Hue’s golden era was ushered in during the early 1800s when Emperor Gia Long commissioned the construction of a grand imperial complex. Designed with feng shui principles to promote harmony between the Emperor, the heavens, and his people, the Citadel was strategically oriented toward Nui Ngu Binh (Royal Screen Mountain) — a spiritual guardian meant to shield the city from negative energy.

🔲 The Citadel comprises three concentric enclosures, starting with the outer walls, enclosing a 5.2 square-kilometer area surrounded by a moat and defensive canal system. These 7-meter-high and 20-meter-thick walls were constructed using bricks and earth, with support from French engineers of the time.

🧱 To make room for this monumental project, eight villages were relocated in 1805. Over the next three decades, tens of thousands of workers built more than 300 structures, including majestic palaces, serene temples, and lavish royal tombs — many of which used materials transported from the former imperial capital in Hanoi.

🕌 The Imperial City & Forbidden Purple City

At the heart of the Citadel lies the Imperial City (Hoang Thanh), a walled enclave housing the central administrative and religious institutions of the Nguyen Dynasty. Within this zone is the Forbidden Purple City (Tu Cam Thanh), once accessible only to the Emperor, his family, and select officials.

Although time, war, and natural disasters have taken their toll — including destruction during the Tet Offensive in 1968, termite infestations, and seasonal floods — restoration efforts have revived many of these historical treasures. Today, these regal monuments form Hue’s most iconic attraction, drawing history lovers and photographers alike.

🚴‍♂️ Explore the Outer Citadel

While most key attractions are within the Imperial City, the outer Citadel is a peaceful area worth exploring — especially its northern sector, known for scenic lakes, lush gardens, and tranquil alleys. It’s ideal for cycling or taking a guided tour to appreciate the beauty and history hidden beyond the main palaces.

🌍 UNESCO World Heritage Recognition

In 1993, the Complex of Hue Monuments was officially designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since then, international support has helped drive ongoing restoration initiatives — including the biennial Hue Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage through music, art, food, and traditional performances.

📌 Tip for Visitors: Hue’s Imperial City is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather and great lighting for photos. Entry tickets now offer access to multiple zones, and guided tours are available in various languages.