Duc An Ancient House

Duc An Ancient House: A Must-Visit Destination in Hoi An Ancient Town, With over 180 years of history, this place is not only a unique architectural work but also tells the story of a golden era of Hoi An's trading port and its deep cultural imprints. Let's explore the beauty and significance of this special house!
1. Location and History
Duc An Ancient House is located at 129 Tran Phu Street, in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town. Built in 1830, the house initially served as a famous traditional medicine pharmacy and later became a center for cultural and intellectual exchange. The house's owners belong to the Phan family, an educated family that contributed significantly to the Vietnamese revolutionary movement. This house is also associated with the childhood of Phan Chu Trinh, a renowned revolutionary of the early 20th century.
2. Unique Architecture of Duc An Ancient House
Duc An Ancient House embodies the traditional architectural style characteristic of Vietnamese people in Hoi An. With a two-story wooden structure, the house stands out for:
a. Materials and Structure:
• Jackfruit and Ironwood: The entire house is built with high-quality, durable wood that withstands harsh weather conditions.
• Three Compartments and Two Wings Structure: Each compartment is reasonably arranged, serving both residential and business purposes.
b. Intricate Carvings:
• Floral and Mythical Creature Motifs: The carvings on the columns, beams, and doors showcase the craftsmanship of Kim Bong artisans.
• Harmonious Layout: The ground floor is designed to be open, utilizing natural light, creating a spacious environment suitable for trading. The upper floor serves as living quarters, ensuring privacy and tranquility.
c. Courtyard and Well:
• At the back of the house is a small courtyard and an ancient well. This area not only serves daily activities but also helps regulate the air, keeping the house cool.
3. Historical and Cultural Significance
Duc An Ancient House played an essential role in social life, beyond being a family residence:
a. Cultural Exchange Center:
• In the 19th century, Duc An House was a bookstore providing progressive books and newspapers, contributing to knowledge dissemination. It was also a meeting place for scholars, intellectuals, and patriots.
b. Birthplace of Revolutionary Movements:
• Phan Chu Trinh lived and grew up in this house. Here, he absorbed new ideas, which later fueled significant revolutionary movements in Vietnamese history.
c. Preservation of Cultural Values:
• Today, Duc An Ancient House still retains many original artifacts like ancient books, household items, and documents related to the Phan family's history. These are vivid testimonies to Hoi An's prosperous development period.
4. Visiting Experience at Duc An Ancient House
Upon entering the house, you will experience the fusion of ancient space and lively historical stories:
a. Viewing Precious Artifacts:
• Ancient Books and Documents: Books and newspapers from the late 19th century are well preserved, reflecting the progressive ideas of the time.
• Ancient Household Items: Items like teapots, wooden cabinets, and furniture are all kept in their original state.
b. Learning About Patriotic Movements:
• You will hear about Phan Chu Trinh's revolutionary journey and the house's role in the Duy Tan movement. These stories are not only interesting but also help us understand the country's history.
c. Capturing Vibrant Photos:
• With its nostalgic setting, Duc An Ancient House is an ideal spot to capture photos that mark the passage of time.
5. Duc An Ancient House – A Lasting Symbol of Hoi An
With its historical, cultural, and architectural values, Duc An Ancient House is not only the pride of the Phan family but also a precious heritage of Hoi An Ancient Town. This place preserves the essence of a vibrant period, witnessing the cultural exchange between tradition and modernity.
Dear visitors, every ancient house in Hoi An carries unique stories, and Duc An Ancient House is no exception. It is a place where history, culture, and architecture converge, offering us unforgettable experiences. We hope that after this visit, you will grow more fond of Hoi An and the heritage values it preserves. Wishing you a fulfilling and meaningful exploration journey in Hoi An!

Some Notes When Visiting:
• Opening Hours: Duc An Ancient House is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Entrance Fee: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket.
• Polite Conduct: Please maintain cleanliness and respect the cultural space.