Hoa Lo Prison, or “Hanoi Hilton”, as it is known among former inmates, conjures up anything but hospitality. Its walls were once a hell house for both Vietnamese and American prisoners.
How to get there
Hoa Lo Prison is situated close to the French Quarter of Hanoi and is accessible by bus or taxi. If you are looking for a Hanoi apartment to rent, consider finding one within the prison’s vicinity, such as Somerset Hoa Binh Hanoi.
History
Built-in 1896 by French colonists, the Hoa Lo Prison’s primary purpose was to imprison/punish Vietnamese rebels. During the Vietnamese War, it was used to house American prisoners.
Structure
Hanoi Hilton was built to house only 600 inmates, but by 1954, over 2000 prisoners were leading to overcrowding. Barricaded by high stone walls, broken glass pieces, and electric wires, the prison consisted of a hospital, guillotine, workshop area, torture chambers, and prisoner quarters. The complex was demolished in the 1990s save the gatehouse, which is today a museum.
Inside the prison
Rotten food and poor sanitary conditions were rife within the complex. Prisoners were chained to the floor or tortured via beating or electric shock. The museum contains exhibits depicting the horrors experienced by inmates.
Things to know
Hoa Lo prison is opened daily from 8 am to 5 pm but closes for lunch. It is best visited with a tour guide and without the presence of young children.
