Visit Independence Palace – a famous historical landmark in Saigon
If you have the opportunity to travel to Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss the chance to explore Independence Palace. This place preserves the proud milestones of the nation during the fierce wartime. Hopefully, you will have unforgettable experiences!
As a famous historical site, Independence Palace attracts many tourists to come and learn about history. You will witness vivid evidence of a bygone era, fostering love and appreciation for life.
Introduction to Independence Palace Where is Independence Palace located? What district is it in? When was Independence Palace built? What is the significance of Independence Palace? Does it have other names? These are common questions for many tourists.
The historical site is located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is classified as a special national monument. This place has witnessed many historical events, the ups and downs of the country, especially the event of the Liberation of the South and the reunification of the country on April 30, 1975.
After several name changes, the historical site is now known as Independence Palace. The name Independence Palace signifies the pride of the nation and the heroic time of resisting foreign invasion.
Other Names and History of the Palace 2.1. Other Names Independence Palace has had various other names throughout its history:
In 1871, after its construction, it was named Norodom Palace. From 1871 to 1887, it was known as Governor’s Palace of Cochinchina. From 1887 to 1945, it was named Presidential Palace. Around 1955, President Ngo Dinh Diem decided to rename Presidential Palace to Independence Palace, and this name has remained until today.
When visiting the palace, besides learning about the history of the nation, tourists can also explore the beautiful surroundings. Therefore, choosing a suitable accommodation is essential for a convenient and swift trip.
2.2. Historical Background Independence Palace’s construction began during the French colonial period. On February 23, 1868, Governor Lagrandière of Cochinchina conducted the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Governor’s Palace of Cochinchina in Saigon.
In 1962, a bombing raid caused the collapse of the main wing and gate of Independence Palace. As it couldn’t be restored, President Ngo Dinh Diem decided to demolish it and build a new palace on the same site.
The new palace is 26 meters tall, situated on a 12-hectare area, with an approximate floor area of 4,500 square meters. It features three main floors, two mezzanines, a basement, and a rooftop for helicopter landing.
The unique design of Independence Palace includes over 100 rooms decorated in various styles to accommodate different purposes. It stands as a testament to the architectural creativity and skill of the architects and builders.
What’s Inside Independence Palace?
The palace is divided into three distinct zones: the fixed zone, the thematic zone, and the supplementary zone. Each zone offers unique features for tourists to explore.
Fixed Zone Inside Independence Palace The fixed zone is where the former government worked and held activities. Rooms within the palace, such as the presidential office, banquet halls, meeting rooms, security council rooms, the president’s office, and government officials’ offices, are preserved. There are also living quarters, activity areas, and entertainment spaces.
When you visit this area, you will witness living historical artifacts that offer insights into the harshness of war.
Thematic Zone of Independence Palace This zone houses thematic exhibitions and large-scale displays. Visitors can see vivid images from the past. With the guidance and narration of tour guides, you can delve into hidden historical details not commonly found in books or other sources.
Supplementary Zone in Ho Chi Minh City’s Independence Palace The supplementary zone displays numerous historical photographs collected and preserved to help future generations understand a part of history. These photos illustrate the resilience and determination of the older generation who fought and triumphed over the enemy to achieve the present-day life.
In addition to exploring the main zones, visitors can also visit the basement of Independence Palace or take a stroll outside in the lush green gardens. From here, you can admire the palace from various angles and appreciate its harmonious and unique architecture.
Detailed Guide to Visiting Independence Palace
Independence Palace is a witness to heroic history, making it a must-visit destination for many tourists. Below is a comprehensive guide to visiting Independence Palace.
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Transportation to Independence Palace
Independence Palace is located near the city center, making it easy to reach and find your way there.
The most common modes of transportation are:
Taxi: Simply go to the hotel lobby and hail a taxi; you will arrive at the palace in no time. When choosing a taxi, be sure to select a reputable company for safety and the best experience. An ideal choice is a taxi
Opening Hours of Independence Palace
The Palace is open for ticket sales to serve tourists on all days of the week (except under special circumstances). Specific visiting hours are: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
The ticket counter is open from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM daily. Therefore, you need to pay attention to the ticket purchasing time.
How Much is the Admission Fee for Independence Palace?
Admission fees for Independence Palace are as follows:
Adults: 40,000 VND/person. Students: 20,000 VND/person. Children: 10,000 VND/person. Ticket for visiting exhibition area “from Norodom Palace to Independence Palace”
Adults: 40,000 VND/person. Students: 40,000 VND/person. Children: 10,000 VND/person. Combo ticket for visiting both historical site and exhibition area
Adults: 65,000 VND/person. Students: 45,000 VND/person. Children: 15,000 VND/person. Note: Opening hours and ticket prices are accurate as of the current time. If you want to obtain the exact information, you can research through other channels to stay well-informed for your journey.
Important Notes to Remember When Visiting Independence Palace
As it’s a place with historical significance, it’s important to abide by the site’s rules and regulations during your visit.
If you’ve arrived in Ho Chi Minh City for tourism, then Independence Palace is a destination you shouldn’t miss. You will learn about a heroic period of the nation’s history and develop even more love for the country and its people. To ensure a swift, safe, and complete journey, book your stay HERE to enjoy comprehensive and luxurious services along with many other fascinating experiences
