The Reunification Palace, which was previously called the Independence Palace, is an iconic landmark of Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. It was designed by the renowned Vietnamese architect, Ngo Viet Thu, and built where the Norodom Palace once stood. It was once a symbol of South Vietnam and is still a cherished local landmark. The inside stands in stark contrast to the modern exterior and taking a tour of the site is a must for all those visiting the city.
The first such structure built on the site was the Norodom Palace. It was constructed by the French after they colonised southern Vietnam (then, Cochinchina). The complex spanned roughly twelve hectares and included a gorgeously landscaped garden. All the construction materials were brought down from France and the Norodom Palace was completed in 1873. The name ‘Norodom’ was taken from the reigning king of Cambodia at that time and the French Governor to Cochinchina used the site as his residence. It was handed over to the Vietnamese in 1954 and was renamed the Independence Palace in
Following an attack the structure was demolished and a new one was built. Construction on the new structure started in 1962 and only finished four years later in 1966. The new site was renamed Reunification Palace in 1975 after a negotiation between North and South Vietnam after the end of the Vietnam War. Although it is well maintained, taking a tour of the site can be eerie as it seems abandoned. Highlights of the tour include the labyrinthine basement, the war command room and the President’s office. It is open daily from 7.30 am to 4 pm with a break between 11 am and 1 pm.
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city. It was formerly called Saigon, a name many people use even now. It has become a highly popular tourist destination over the past decade. Tourists looking for luxury accommodation Ho Chi Minh City may want to try serviced apartments instead of a hotel. Somerset Chancellor Court Ho Chi Minh City provides excellent Ho Chi Minh City serviced apartments that contain all the facilities found in a hotel but still retain a feeling of home.
