Reunification Palace Tourism

Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, stands as a symbol of Vietnam's turbulent history, especially during the Vietnam War. Located at the center of Ho Chi Minh City, the current structure was completed in 1966, replacing the Norodom Palace, which was destroyed during the Vietnam War. Reunification Palace served as the residence and office of the President of South Vietnam until 1975 when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its gates, effectively ending the war. The building has preserved much of its original design and furnishings, making it a time capsule of 1960s architecture and statecraft. Inside, visitors can explore the presidential offices, the war command room with old radio equipment and maps, and the basement tunnels. The palace is set in well-managed gardens, and the architecture, designed by Ngo Viet Thu, incorporates traditional Vietnamese elements. It is a must-visit for history buffs and a poignant reminder of the past for the Vietnamese people and international visitors alike.