Doan Mon gate
Five arches, the middle one for the emperor.
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For centuries the heart of power in Vietnam: the Ly dynasty founded its capital, Thang Long, here in 1010, and the site remained the seat of the imperial court until the capital moved to Hue at the end of the eighteenth century. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. You enter through Doan Mon, the southern gate with five arches, the central one reserved for the emperor. From the top of the gate you can see the famous Flag Tower, which stands just outside the site and is one of Hanoi's best-known symbols. Inside, all that remains of Kinh Thien Palace, the main hall of the court, is its foundation and the stone stairway carved with dragons in 1467. Behind the palace are building D67 and the underground bunkers that served as the headquarters of the Vietnamese army during the Vietnam War, with their meeting rooms kept as they were. Across Hoang Dieu Street lies an archaeological dig that has uncovered palace foundations and wells from successive dynasties. Allow at least ninety minutes, and bring a hat and water in summer: the courtyards are open and shade is scarce.
Five arches, the middle one for the emperor.
From Kinh Thien Palace, 1467.
A wartime command post.
19C Hoang Dieu Street, Ba Dinh District
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No. The Flag Tower stands just outside the site on Dien Bien Phu Street, and is clearly visible from the top of Doan Mon gate.