The Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc is a majestic mausoleum situated in Hue, Vietnam, considered one of the most picturesque and elaborate royal tombs of the Nguyen dynasty. Designed by Emperor Tu Duc himself, this historical site is not just a tomb, but a complex of pavilions, temples, and a small lake. Spanning roughly 12 hectares, the complex served as a second Imperial City where the emperor could relax, write poetry, or go hunting. Tu Duc, the fourth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, ruled from 1847 until his death in 1883, and the construction of his tomb took three years to complete. Lush greenery and lotus ponds characterize the serene landscape, which reflects the emperor's romantic nature. The complex is segregated into a temple area and the tomb area, where the former hosts a stele pavilion containing the emperor's biography written by himself, and the latter includes the burial grounds. The pathways leading to the grave are lined with statues and monuments. Despite its grandeur and the effort put into its making, Emperor Tu Duc was never actually interred here; his remains are in a mystery location somewhere else in Hue with all the workers involved in his burial having been beheaded to keep the tomb's location secret.
This tomb is set in beautiful gardens which were lovely to walk around to find shade in the heat of the day. Beautiful architecture and interesting history. Well worth a visit.
679efremw
Wrote on 13th Jun, 2024
A serene marvel of complex design
The serene environment provided a peaceful escape, perfect for a couple's exploration. The complex design of the tomb, with its intricate architecture and lush gardens, left us in awe. Truly a must-vi..
Doesn't have the wow factor as the tomb itself is pretty ugly (as the emperor is buried elsewhere), but the large grounds are very pretty and good for a stroll through.
The life and history of Tu Doc ..
The complex is expansive, with grand pavilions, stunning courtyards, and a tranquil lake. The peaceful atmosphere invites contemplation and provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of Emperor Tu ..
An interesting site but lacking in the beauty and artistry of other sights we saw in Viet Nam. Tu Doc did not sound like a pleasant individual. The mausoleum itself is very grim and austere, but the..