Voi Re Palace Hue: A Lesser-Known Destination Rich in Historical Significance

Voi Re Palace Hue is not only an ancient architectural work, but also a tragic epic of loyalty between humans and elephants—the silent “warriors” closely tied to the history of the Nguyen Dynasty.

The name “Voi Re” originates from a touching 18th-century legend during the Trinh – Nguyen conflict. Legend has it that after a brave Dang Trong general fell on the battlefield, his loyal elephant traveled hundreds of miles back to Phu Xuan (now Hue), trumpeting mournfully while running, before collapsing at Tho Cuong Hill. Out of pity, local people buried the elephant on the spot, erected a tomb, and called it the Voi Re Tomb—the place preserving the final tragic roar of the war elephant.

In 1817, after the country was unified, King Gia Long—having witnessed the decisive role of war elephants in many battles—ordered the construction of Voi Re Palace right on the foundation of the old tomb. Initially, the shrine was established to worship the guardian deity of elephants, but later expanded to commemorate the four bravest war elephants of the Nguyen Dynasty: Voi Re (associated with the legend), Voi O Long, Voi Bich, and Voi Nhi (also known as Bon). Not only means of warfare, these war elephants were symbols of absolute loyalty.

Among them, the story of Elephant O Long left many deeply moved. After its commander passed away, O Long resolutely went on a hunger strike, trumpeted in sorrow for three days, and then died following its master. Other war elephants like Bay, Tam, and Chin also demonstrated rare loyalty. Moved by such devotion, King Minh Mang in 1825 bestowed upon the palace the title “Tro Oai Tuong Vo Linh Uong Ho Tuong chi than” (Deity Protecting the Regal and Valiant War Elephants), raising war elephants to the realm of deities. From then on, the royal court held biannual sacrifices every spring and autumn, allocating funds for solemn rites, turning this place into a special cultural symbol of imperial beliefs.

In 1998, Voi Re Palace Hue was officially recognized as a national historic site. Though not as crowded as the Imperial Citadel or royal tombs, the palace still quietly stands as a “witness” to the Kinh Tuong troop—the Nguyen Dynasty war elephant force that contributed to the heroic spirit of nation-building.

Voi Re Palace Hue is located on Tho Cuong Hill, in Truong Da village, Thuy Bieu ward—just about 5km west of Hue city center. The complex covers an area of over 2,000m² and was designed according to Oriental feng shui principles, creating a harmonious land orientation of “backed by mountains, facing water”. In front lies the 1,000m² Palace Lake, about 3m deep with stone embankments on both sides, where lotus flowers bloom fragrantly in summer, serving as the energy-gathering ming tang. Behind is a range of low hills acting as the backrest, while the raised wall in front serves as a windbreak screen, ensuring solid stability for the entire structure.

The center of the complex is Long Chau Shrine—built in the traditional trung thiem diep oc (overlapping roofs and double-chamber) style, consisting of 5 main bays and 2 side wings. Curved tiled roofs and a softly arched front hall shaped like a crab shell stand out alongside an intricately carved wooden beam system. A special feature is 104 wooden panel frames carved with the character Longevity (Tho) interspersed with flowers, foliage, and birds, symbolizing longevity and prosperity. Right in the middle of the hall hangs the horizontal board “Long Chau Mieu”, which was restored in 1917 under King Khai Dinh, enhancing its solemnity.

On both sides of the main shrine are Dong Phoi Dien (East Side Hall) and Tay Phoi Dien (West Side Hall), used for auxiliary worship of war elephants and as reception areas for guests after sacrifice ceremonies. The entrance to the palace is a triple gate consisting of 17 laterite stone steps, topped with three Chinese characters “Nghiêm Nhược Lâm”—meaning “a solemn forest”. In front of the gate stands a screen featuring a Long Ma (Dragon-Horse), symbolizing power, wisdom, and loyalty.

Behind the main sanctuary, visitors will find the tomb mound of O Long with a stele inscribed “Ô Long Tượng Mộ” (Tomb of Elephant O Long), the burial place of the famously loyal war elephant. Nearby is the Tuong Shrine worshipping the elephant deity spirit tablet and a 0.7m high stone elephant statue, recreating the majestic image of Nguyen Dynasty war elephants.

Although time has caused many items to deteriorate—moss-covered roof tiles, a gradually overgrown lotus pond—that very ancient, mossy charm creates a unique appeal. Every step here takes visitors back in time to listen to the tragic “roar” of war elephants echoing through each stone and roof tile of Voi Re Palace Hue.

In the context of the Nguyen Dynasty, elephants were not merely a mode of transportation, but also “living weapons” in major battle campaigns such as Binh Tay Dau (1801). Voi Re Palace Hue stands as proof of their role: loyal to the death, contributing to the defense of the dynasty. Elevating elephants to the level of deities reflects Confucian philosophy—valuing loyalty to the king and patriotism, extended even to animals with great merit.

The elephant worship culture here is also tied to folk beliefs: worshipping Thien Su (the elephant god), Chua Dong (the earth god), Hong Nuong (the water god), and Tien Hau Khai Khan (the agricultural gods) to pray for peace for the elephant herds. The four spirit tablets in Long Chau Shrine—Do Doc Hung Tuong Re, Bich, Nhi, and Bon—were bestowed noble titles, showing deep reverence. Today, Voi Re Palace reminds us of humanistic values: loyalty knows no species boundaries, and history always needs small stories to tell grand legends.

For visitors, this location offers an opportunity to reflect on Hue not just as a physical heritage site, but as an immortal spirit. If you are passionate about Vietnamese history, Voi Re Palace will provide a cultural depth that popular tourist spots can hardly match.

Voi Re Palace Hue is located just 400m from Ho Quyen Arena (another nearby monument), in Truong Da residential group, Thuy Bieu ward. Here is the detailed route:

From central Hue (Imperial Citadel or Truong Tien Bridge): Follow Le Loi Street to the west, turn right at the Bui Thi Xuan – Phan Chau Trinh three-way intersection. Continue straight on Bui Thi Xuan Street to No. 373, turn left for about 200m to arrive. Total distance is about 5km, taking 10-15 minutes.

Transportation: 

• Motorbike: Rent near hotels for around 80,000 VND/day, easy to navigate through narrow roads.
• Taxi/Grab: Costs around 50,000-70,000 VND one way, convenient for groups.
• Walking: If combined with Ho Quyen Arena, walk 5-10 minutes from there through peaceful village paths.

Note: The path leading to the palace is slightly uneven, so wear comfortable shoes. Admission is free, but please respect the sacred space by maintaining cleanliness.

Although Voi Re Palace Hue is not as grand or magnificent as the Imperial Citadel or royal tombs, its simple, tranquil charm highlights profound values: loyalty, dedication, and deep reverence for the “silent heroes” in history. Visiting this place, travelers not only admire a unique monument but also listen to the tragic story of human-elephant devotion, fostering greater love and pride for the ancient capital rich in a thousand years of heritage.