Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace – Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Ba Dinh political and historical complex, the Presidential Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam. Originally constructed between 1900 and 1906 during the French colonial period, the building was designed in the Beaux-Arts architectural style as the residence of the Governor-General of Indochina. Its elegant yellow facade, sweeping staircases, and grand European design reflect colonial influence and historical transformation.

After the victory of the August Revolution in 1945 and the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, the building was designated as the official workplace of the President. However, President Ho Chi Minh, known for his humility and modest lifestyle, refused to live in the grand palace. Instead, he chose to reside in a small house nearby and later in a simple stilt house built in 1958—modeled after traditional houses of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities.

Today, visitors to the Presidential Palace complex can walk through the beautifully maintained gardens, see the fish pond that President Ho Chi Minh cared for himself, and explore the stilt house that became his symbolic home. Every element of the site—from the green mango trees to his well-preserved working space—offers a deep sense of serenity and insight into his values of simplicity, integrity, and dedication to the nation.

The Presidential Palace and its surrounding grounds not only serve as a historic reminder of Vietnam’s journey to independence but also as a living testament to the moral character and leadership of Ho Chi Minh. It is a deeply meaningful destination for both Vietnamese citizens and international visitors seeking to understand the personal life and legacy of one of the most revered figures in Vietnam’s modern history.