The reconstruction of the Kiến Trung Palace from ruins holds significant importance in the conservation and enhancement of the value of the Complex of Hue Monuments - a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
The Kiến Trung Palace was built in 1921 and completed in 1923. It served as the workplace and residence of two Nguyen Dynasty emperors, Khai Dinh and Bao Dai. The palace is one of the five main architectural structures situated along the Dung Dao axis of the Hue Imperial City, together with the Thai Hoa Palace, Can Chanh Palace, Can Thanh Palace, and the Khon Thai Residence. In 1947, due to the impact of war and bombings, the Kiến Trung Palace was almost completely destroyed, reduced to ruins, and only the foundation remains today.
The investment in the reconstruction of the Kiến Trung Palace includes various components such as overall restoration of the wall surrounding the foundation, railing system, courtyard including the front and rear gardens, various terraces, and the restoration of the two-story Kiến Trung Palace building with a height of approximately 14 meters and a construction area of about 975 square meters. Other smaller structures in the vicinity are also being renovated, including the brick pedestal, water fountain, cannons, guardhouses, technical infrastructure, and greenery. The conservation of the foundation of the East Palace, Royal Reading Room, Võ Hộ Gia Phòng, and Ngự Phê Phòng are also part of the project.
This palace exhibits characteristics of an architectural structure influenced by Indochinese style, combining elements from both Asia and Europe. It is an important and distinctive addition to the traditional architecture of the Hue Imperial City. The highlight of the Kiến Trung Palace lies in its unique exterior ceramic patterns, featuring a variety of vibrant colors and lively decorative themes, which give the structure its soul. The ceramic work is currently about 80% complete and involves the participation of many skilled folk artisans in this field. The decorative patterns on the walls and ceilings of each room in the Kiến Trung Palace are being meticulously recreated by artists based on ancient documents. Currently, the main structure of the Kiến Trung Palace, with its reinforced concrete framework, has completed the rough construction, with tiled roofs adorned with decorative ceramic details.
Once completed, this project will create a new and captivating tourist attraction for domestic and international visitors coming to the Hue Imperial City.
Over the past 30 years since being recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1993, the Complex of Hue Monuments has successfully transitioned from an emergency rescue phase to a phase of stability and sustainable development. Currently, the Center for Conservation of Hue Monuments is continuing its research and finalizing documentation to implement the restoration projects of the Can Chanh Palace and the Great Enclosure Gate, both located along the Dung Dao axis of the Hue Imperial City. These efforts aim to gradually restore the splendor and significance of these important palaces, ensuring the preservation of the ancient and majestic Hue Imperial City for present and future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When did the restoration project of the Kiến Trung Palace begin?
The restoration project of the Kiến Trung Palace began in February 2019.
2. Who were the emperors associated with the Kiến Trung Palace?
The Kiến Trung Palace was associated with the emperors Khai Dinh and Bao Dai of the Nguyen Dynasty.
3. What is the significance of the Kiến Trung Palace in the Complex of Hue Monuments?
The Kiến Trung Palace holds significant importance as one of the main architectural structures within the Complex of Hue Monuments, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
4. What are the unique features of the Kiến Trung Palace?
The Kiến Trung Palace exhibits a combination of Asian and European influences in its architectural style. The exterior ceramic patterns with vibrant colors and decorative themes are a distinctive highlight.
5. When is the expected completion date of the Kiến Trung Palace restoration?
The restoration of the Kiến Trung Palace is expected to be fully completed by the end of 2023.
Kien Trung Palace is finalizing the final details, June 24, 2023