“Thai Hoa aspiration”

Tourist exploring historical documents in the space of “Thai Hoa aspiration” exhibition

Here, each artifact and photo, as well as film screenshot carry themselves a story of a dynasty, evoking historical memories and an aspiration to preserve nation’s heritage.

Visiting Hue Imperial Citadel, Mr. Tran Hoang, a tourist from Hanoi was amazed by the majestic and splendid beauty of the place symbolizing the power of the Nguyen Dynasty. He shared: “This is the first time I’ve seen and felt the magnificent beauty of Thai Hoa Palace so close. What impressed me most was the opportunity to explore royal rituals, arts, and knowledge through the exhibition. From the precious displayed artifacts such as the imperial calendar and documentary films screened here, everything is captivating and provides much valuable information”.

Mr. Nguyen The Son, Deputy Director of the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities informed that the unit has taken the responsibility to implement the exhibition with an aim to introduce diverse photos and documents about the formation, development, and restoration of the work, as well as providing information about the palace’s architectural and historical values. Previously, the museum also held an exhibition to display the interior designs of Thai Hoa Palace’s central area in the reigns of Emperor Khai Dinh and Emperor Bao Dai through original artifacts such as the Nguyen Dynasty’s throne, a collection of pedestals, pots, and flower vases, etc. The western lean-to was the space for displaying other artifacts such as the royal decrees, royal calendar, imperial calendar (the calendar made by King, used exclusively for royal family only), original royal petitions, and replicas of golden seals, along with panels detailing the exhibition contents, etc., helping tourists to gain a clear understanding of history.

Additionally, the exhibition also introduces documentary films about the Tu Tuan Dai Khanh of Emperor Khai Dinh and a clip showcasing the coronation ceremony of Emperor Bao Dai as well as documentaries about the cultural heritage of Hue. There are screenings of 3D films created by the KAIST Institute (South Korea) in collaboration with Hue Monuments Conservation Center that showcase the restoration and digitization of the Thai Hoa Palace. In the near future, Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities will exhibit the painting series “Grand Court Attire of the Annam Court”, created by artist Nguyen Van Nhan during the reign of Emperor Thanh Thai. With 54 watercolor illustrations, this collection is a valuable resource, providing an authentic perspective on royal attire and court ceremonies in the early 20th century.

Each artifact in this over-200-year-old palace not only recreates memories of the imperial court but also conveys the importance of preserving the nation’s cultural heritage. “We aim not only to protect heritage structures but also to share historical stories, helping visitors and younger generations gain a deeper understanding of our nation’s culture and history; thus, inspiring pride and raising awareness of the need to protect the precious heritage passed down by our ancestors,” said Mr. Hoang Viet Trung, Director of the Hue Monuments Conservation Center.