Rare Treasures Currently On Display in Hue Imperial City

The Nine Dynastic Urns (Cửu Đỉnh) is a set of 9 massive bronze urns cast under King Minh Mang (1835-1837), located in the courtyard of The Mieu Temple inside the Imperial Citadel. Each urn is 2.3-2.5m high and weighs between 3,200 and 4,300 catties, considered the pinnacle of traditional Vietnamese bronze casting art. What is special is that carved onto the bodies of the urns are 153 images depicting the mountains, rivers, and landscapes of Dai Nam, along with Chinese annotations, creating a unique bronze "Dai Nam Nhat Thong Chi" (Gazetteer of Great Nam). These images not only demonstrate the talent of the artisans but also reflect national pride and the strength of the Nguyen Dynasty.

• Display location: The Mieu Courtyard, Hue Imperial City.

The Nguyen Dynasty Royal Throne, currently located at Thai Hoa Palace, is the ultimate symbol of power of the Nguyen emperors. The throne was crafted from precious wood, elaborately coated in red lacquer and gilded with gold, consisting of two main parts: the throne body and the throne base, topped with an intricately decorated canopy. Measuring 87cm long, 72cm wide, 101cm high, and weighing approximately 60kg, this was the place where coronation ceremonies, court audiences, and many major court rituals took place. In 2015, the golden throne was recognized as a National Treasure. Currently, experts are conducting restoration work to maximally preserve the original value of the artifact.

• Display location: Thai Hoa Palace, Hue Imperial City.

The Nine Holy Cannons (Cửu Vị Thần Công) consist of 9 giant cannons cast between 1803 and 1804 during the reign of King Gia Long, using bronze reclaimed from the Tay Son Dynasty. Each cannon is about 5.1m long and weighs over 10 tons, named after the four seasons (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter) and the five elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth). On the body of each cannon, artisans engraved inscriptions guiding their use alongside the names of those directly involved in crafting them. Not only a symbol of victory for the Nguyen Dynasty, the Nine Holy Cannons also showcase the pinnacle of bronze casting techniques and contemporary decorative art. In 2012, these 9 cannons were recognized as National Treasures and currently still stand majestically in front of Ngo Mon Gate, like "soldiers" guarding the Hue Citadel.

• Display location: Area near Ngo Mon Gate, Hue Imperial City.

The Nam Giao Ritual Robe (Áo Tế Giao) is a special ceremonial attire of the Nguyen emperors, used only during heaven and earth worship rituals at Nam Giao Esplanade – the most important court ceremony. The robe is woven from dark blue-black satin fabric, with a spacious design featuring a turned collar, a 10cm-wide collar strip, and side slits on both sides. The robe length is 117cm, the hem width is 98cm, and the sleeve length is 115cm.

Standing before this treasure, viewers feel as if transported back in time, imagining the image of kings on full moon nights, solemnly offering prayers for national peace and prosperity. In 2012, the Nam Giao Ritual Robe was recognized as a National Treasure, becoming a sacred symbol for the people of Hue.

• Display location: Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities (Long An Palace), Imperial City.

At Kien Trung Palace, an antique ceramics exhibition displaying nearly 200 artifacts was organized, introducing Vietnamese ceramic styles from prehistoric times to the 20th century. Notable highlights include:

• Celadon ceramics of the Tran - Le periods (14th-15th centuries): The collection includes bowls, plates, jars, and wine flasks used in the Thang Long Imperial Palace. These ceramic items are thin, light, and light-transmitting, referred to as "translucent porcelain".
• Blue-and-white ceramics of the Le period (15th century): A blue-and-white ceramic jar, auctioned and purchased back from France in 2024, is a highlight of the exhibition.
• Sa Huynh and Champa ceramics: Professor Thai Kim Lan's collection, comprising 6 prehistoric artifacts, demonstrates the cultural intersection of ancient civilizations.

Display location: Kien Trung Palace, Hue Imperial City.

The Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities at Long An Palace is home to royal treasures, ranging from golden books and golden seals made of pure gold to shimmering jade vases. In particular, the "golden trees" with coral branches, jade leaves, and gemstone flowers are evidence of the luxury and talent of Nguyen Dynasty artisans. According to the Hue Monuments Conservation Center, these artifacts were once the pride of the royal family, used on grand ceremonial occasions. They reflect the luxury and sophistication of royal life while standing as proof of Vietnamese craftsmanship in the 19th century.

Hue Imperial City is a convergence of historical, artistic, and royal cultural values unique to Vietnam. From the majestic Nine Dynastic Urns and the noble Royal Throne to the exquisite porcelain sets and imperial utensils, each treasure reflects the prosperity and master-level skill of the Nguyen Dynasty. Exploring the Imperial City is not only about admiring artifacts, but also an opportunity to delve into the stories, rituals, and life of the ancient royal court. To fully enjoy this experience, you can choose a Hue Imperial City tour with a well-structured itinerary, expert historical guides, and convenient pick-up services – making your journey to explore the ancient capital effortless, complete, and memorable.