Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities: Where to admire many precious treasures

Hue, once the capital of Vietnam, is rich in historical and cultural treasures. Among its many attractions, the Hue Royal Fine Arts Museum stands out as a significant repository of the city’s heritage.

Location and Details:
Address: 3 Le Truc Street, Phu Hau District, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue
Opening Hours: 7:00 am – 5:30 pm
Entrance Fee: VND 150,000 for adults; VND 50,000 for children

1. History of the Museum

Hue served as Vietnam’s capital from 1802 to 1945. On August 24, 1923, King Khai Dinh issued a decree establishing the museum, originally called Musee’ Khai Dinh. Its mission was to showcase the artistic talents and cultural heritage of the nation. Over time, the museum has undergone several name changes, eventually becoming the Royal Fine Arts Museum. It plays a vital role in preserving the legacies of the artisans who contributed to the Nguyen royal court and is now managed by the Hue Monuments Conservation Center.

2. What to See in the Museum?

The museum is housed in Long An Palace, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful palaces, covering 6,330 square meters. Built in 1845 under King Thieu Tri, the main showroom is a magnificent structure with 1,200 square meters dedicated to displaying royal antiques.

Highlights:
Architecture: Long An Palace features seven compartments, two annexes, and 128 intricately carved wooden pillars depicting Vietnamese scenery and sacred animals.
Collections: The museum boasts over 300 items in materials like gold, porcelain, and glazed terra-cotta. Highlights include royal antiquities, poetry, paintings, historical artifacts, and personal items of the Nguyen Kings.
Special Artifacts: Unique items include 80 objects from the Cham ethnic minority, a folding screen painted with images of Hue women in Ao Dai, and a collection of 30 ancient cannons.

3. Activities of the Museum

The museum holds various exhibitions and community activities to engage visitors:

Exhibitions: Notable exhibitions include “100th Anniversary of An Dinh Residence” and “Capitals of Vietnam through Historical Periods.”
Community Events: Summer activities for children, such as painting and playing royal games, foster a deeper connection between the public and the museum.

4. How to Get to the Museum

Hue is accessible via multiple transportation options:

By Air: Fly to Phu Bai Airport (15 km from Hue City), then take a taxi (approx. VND 180,000) or a bus (VND 40,000) to the museum.
By Train: Although it takes longer, traveling by train offers scenic views and an immersive experience through various Vietnamese provinces.

5. Travel Tips

Name Confusion: The museum is also known as the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities.
Photography: Cameras and taking pictures are not allowed inside the museum.
Itinerary: Combine your visit with trips to the Imperial Enclosure and the Perfume River for a comprehensive Hue experience.

A visit to the Hue Royal Fine Arts Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s regal past and the rich cultural heritage of the Nguyen dynasty. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore one of the earliest and largest museums in Hue.