Hue Imperial City and Forbidden Purple City

The Hue Imperial City and Forbidden Purple City, also known as Dai Noi, is a unique historical architectural complex located in the heart of Hue City. It preserves the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam. Construction began in 1804 under Emperor Gia Long. This site once served as the administrative and political center of the court and the residence of the royal family. Dai Noi stands out not only for its historical value but also attracts visitors with its majestic architecture and intricate decorations, contributing to its designation as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Unique Architecture of the Imperial City

The Imperial City is rectangular in shape, with each side measuring over 600 meters, surrounded by sturdy walls and a 16-meter-wide moat. These not only provided protection but also added harmonious beauty to the space. The Imperial City has four gates, with the prominent one being Ngo Mon - the main grand gate. The fortresses and square towers on the walls create a strict defense system.

Forbidden Purple City – The Sacred Royal Area

Located deep within the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City was the sacred area reserved for the emperor and the royal family. The surrounding walls of the Forbidden Purple City are nearly 4 meters high, with only one main gate - Dai Cung Mon. Inside are the palaces, living quarters, and workspaces for the royal family. Each area within the Forbidden Purple City had its specific function, from ancestral temples, royal palaces to the Nội Vụ (Royal Treasury), where valuable royal artifacts were stored.

Functional Zones

Dai Noi Hue is divided into several zones:

• The ceremonial area: From Ngo Mon to Thai Hoa Palace, where major court ceremonies were held.
• Worship area: Temples like Trieu Mieu and Thai Mieu, along with other important shrines.
• Royal living quarters: Dien Tho Palace for the Queen Mother, Truong Sanh Palace for the Grand Queen Mother.
• Royal Treasury: Where treasures and handicrafts were kept.
• Co Ha Garden and Kham Van Palace: Study and entertainment areas for princes and the royal family.

Architectural and Decorative Art

The architecture of Dai Noi follows traditional principles like “tả văn hữu võ” (left for literature, right for martial arts) and “tả nam hữu nữ” (left for males, right for females), with symbolic numbers like 5 and 9 representing imperial power. The five-clawed dragon symbolizing the emperor's power appears in many structures, showcasing royal status. The golden tiled roofs, intricately carved pillars, and meticulous decorative patterns create a luxurious, ancient beauty, characteristic of Vietnamese royal art.

World Cultural Heritage

Today, the Imperial City and Forbidden Purple City have become major tourist attractions, preserving the unique cultural and historical values of Vietnam. With the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage designation, Dai Noi attracts both domestic and international tourists. This historical space allows visitors to feel the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty and experience distinctive traditional culture when visiting Hue.