HUE, Vietnam — Local residents on the other side of the moat hang out their washing to dry at the Imperial City in Hue, Vietnam. A self-enclosed and fortified palace, the complex includes the Purple Forbidden City, which was the inner sanctum of the imperial household, as well as temples, courtyards, gardens, and other buildings. Much of the Imperial City was damaged or destroyed during the Vietnam War. It is now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Imperial City of Hue, located in central Vietnam, is a historic royal complex that served as the political, cultural, and religious center of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Enclosed within massive walls and a moat, the Imperial City, also known as the Citadel, includes a range of significant structures such as palaces, temples, gates, and gardens. Key sites within the complex include the Thai Hoa Palace, which hosted imperial ceremonies, and the Forbidden Purple City, the private residence of the emperor. The city is situated on the northern bank of the Perfume River, which adds to its picturesque setting. The architecture of the Imperial City reflects a blend of traditional Vietnamese design and French colonial influences, showcasing intricate details and grand scale. In 1993, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its historical and cultural importance. Today, the Imperial City is a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its ancient structures and learn about Vietnam's imperial past. The ongoing restoration efforts aim to preserve this invaluable heritage for future generations.
Size: 4930px × 3265px
Location: Imperial City, Hue, Thua Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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