If you’re visiting Hue and want to explore the unique features of the Nguyen dynasty tombs, the Tomb of Emperor Duc Duc is a great addition to your itinerary. Located within the historic site of the Imperial City of Hue, this tomb is the final resting place of the fifth emperor of the Nguyen dynasty. Follow DanangPrivateCar.com’s guide below for an in-depth look at this fascinating location!

Tomb of Emperor Duc Duc in Hue - A historical site within the Imperial City of Hue, showcasing Nguyen dynasty architecture.
The Tomb of Emperor Duc Duc, a notable historical site in Hue, Vietnam, representing the architecture and heritage of the Nguyen dynasty.

Things to Know About Duc Duc Tomb in Hue

Where is Tu Duc Tomb?

Duc Duc Tomb, also known as An Lang, is the burial place of King Duc Duc, the 5th king of the Nguyen Dynasty. Duc Duc Tomb is a relic in the complex of Hue relics recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage on December 11, 1993.

How to get to Duc Duc Tomb

Duc Duc Tomb is located close to Hue’s city center, making it an easy destination to reach. Starting from Ly Thuong Kiet Street, continue straight to Tran Phu Street, then turn onto Duy Tan Street. You’ll see signs directing you to Duc Duc Tomb.

  • Motorbike: Renting a motorbike in Hue is the most popular way to travel around the city. The ride to Duc Duc Tomb takes about 15 minutes.
  • Private Car: If you don’t have a motorbike, you can opt for a private car service in Hue from DanangPrivateCar.com’s. This service allows for a more comfortable trip, and you can also explore other tourist sites in Hue.
  • Taxi: Taxis provide a fast and convenient way to travel, though the fare can be quite expensive compared to other options.

History of Duc Duc Tomb

King Duc Duc, born Nguyen Phuc Ung Chan in 1852, ascended the throne in 1883. However, after just three days (on July 23, 1883), he was deposed and placed under house arrest at the Thai Y Vien. Tragically, he was left to starve in Thua Thien prison, where he passed away after seven days without food. Initially, he was temporarily buried at Phuoc Qua Dune, near Tuong Quang Pagoda.

In 1889, his son, Nguyen Phuc Buu Lan, ascended the throne as King Thanh Thai. Upon taking power, Thanh Thai promptly arranged for his father’s tomb to be properly constructed and named it An Lang. The place of worship was Tuong Quang Pagoda, located 200 meters away.

Duc Duc Tomb in Hue, Vietnam, historical royal mausoleum of King Duc Duc
Duc Duc Tomb in Hue, the resting place of King Duc Duc, a significant historical site in Vietnam

In 1891, under King Thanh Thai’s rule, a temple named Tan Mieu was built in Thuan Cat Ward, near the right of the Imperial Citadel, to honor King Duc Duc.

In July of the 11th year of Thanh Thai‘s reign (August 1899), King Thanh Thai constructed Long An Palace near Duc Duc’s tomb to serve as a place of worship for his father. Several additional structures, including Ta and Huu Co houses, were also built within the compound.

In late 1945, following the death of King Duy Tan in a plane crash in Africa, a memorial ceremony was held at Long An Palace, and he was worshipped there. In 1954, after King Thanh Thai‘s death, his body was returned and buried at the current location in the An Lang area, where he was also honored at the Long An temple. In 1987, King Duy Tan‘s remains were repatriated and interred next to Thanh Thai‘s mausoleum.

Overview of Duc Duc Tomb

The Duc Duc Tomb complex covers nearly 6 hectares and includes the tomb of King Duc Duc, the queen, and 42 tombs of other royals, including queens and 121 earth graves belonging to members of the fourth lineage of the Chanh Nguyen Phuoc family (King Duc Duc’s lineage). At the center is An Lang, which spans 1 hectare.

Duc Duc Tomb complex in Hue, Vietnam, including An Lang and royal tombs
Duc Duc Tomb complex in Hue, spanning 6 hectares, home to King Duc Duc, King Thanh Thai, and King Duy Tan

King Duc Duc, born Nguyen Phuc Ung (1852 – 1883), reigned for only 3 days before being deposed. In 1889, his son, King Thanh Thai, ascended the throne as the 10th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty and ruled until 1907. He built a proper tomb, An Lang, for his father. Later, this tomb also became the burial place for King Thanh Thai and King Duy Tan, the 11th emperor.

Architecture of Duc Duc Tomb

Compared to the other mausoleums of the Nguyen kings, Duc Duc Tomb is known for its simpler and more modest architecture. The complex consists of approximately 20 large and small structures, divided into two main sections: the tomb area and the temple area, separated by more than 50 meters.

Entering the tomb area, which spans 3,445 square meters, visitors pass through a large three-door gate made of brick with a false roof. Beyond the gate lies Bai Dinh, a courtyard that lacks the typical stone statues found in other mausoleums. Instead, the courtyard is decorated with brick and lime balustrades.

The simple and modest architecture of Duc Duc Tomb in Hue, featuring traditional Nguyen Dynasty designs
The architecture of Duc Duc Tomb is notable for its simplicity compared to other royal mausoleums in Hue, Vietnam

At the heart of the tomb lies the Huynh Oc House, built on an 8-meter-square base. The structure is reminiscent of a traditional communal house, featuring an ancient floor design and a roof covered with royal lapis lazuli tiles. The edges of the roof are adorned with dragon and phoenix motifs, while the interior maintains a simple decor.

The temple area covers 6,245 square meters, with the main building being Long An Palace. This palace follows the dual-building design seen in the Hue Imperial Palace and features six roof trusses in the front, constructed in the “fake husband and wife” style. The facade is intricately decorated with tiger faces, adding to the craftsmanship.

The wooden architecture of Long An Palace holds significant artistic value and is considered one of the finest examples of the Nguyen Dynasty’s architectural heritage in Hue.

Other Tombs Near Duc Duc Tomb in Hue

In addition to the Tomb of Duc Duc in Hue, you can visit other nearby historical sites:

The National Library of the Nguyen Dynasty – The National Archives of the Nguyen Dynasty

The National Library of the Nguyen Dynasty, located within the Imperial City of Hue, is a unique and significant architectural structure that houses a large collection of national documents and historical texts from the Nguyen Dynasty. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, Tàng Thư Lâu is not only a repository of documents but also an important historical monument that honors the education and civilization of the Nguyen Dynasty.

The National Library of the Nguyen Dynasty is impressive, featuring long corridors and the solemn Hien Nhan Gate. Inside the repository, ancient bookshelves with manuscripts, books, and archived documents are meticulously arranged. Additionally, there are many maps, paintings, and historical artifacts that help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Nguyen Dynasty history and culture.

Tàng Thư Lâu not only preserves invaluable documents but also serves as a space for exploration and research for scholars, historians, and history enthusiasts. It is a place that celebrates knowledge and education and is a must-visit destination when exploring Hue, preserving and narrating the story of a significant historical era of Vietnam.

Tomb of Thieu Tri – One of the Most Famous Tombs of the Imperial City

The Tomb of Thieu Tri, also known as Xương Lăng, is the burial site of Emperor Thieu Tri, the third emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. The tomb is located in Cu Chanh village, Thuy Bang commune, Hue city, about 8 km from the city center.

Thieu Tri Tomb is recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage

Construction of the Tomb of Thieu Tri began in 1848 and was completed in just 10 months. The tomb is built in a rectangular layout, including:

  • Tam Quan Gate: The main gate of the tomb, built in traditional Vietnamese architectural style.
  • Ta Huu Nghi Mon: Two auxiliary gates symmetrically placed on either side of the Tam Quan Gate.
  • Ta Huu Truc Mon: Two smaller gates leading to the tomb’s main chamber.
  • Tomb: The emperor’s tomb is located behind the main chamber and is constructed in a hexagonal shape.

The Tomb of Thieu Tri is considered one of the most beautiful tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty, featuring elegant and harmonious architectural lines. The tomb is also known for its lush green gardens and expansive rice fields, creating a picturesque and poetic scenery.

Tomb of Minh Mang – Attracting Millions of Visitors Annually

The Tomb of Minh Mang, also known as Hieu Lang, is the resting place of the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, Nguyen Phuc Dam. The tomb is located on Mount Cam Ke, Huong Tho commune, Hương Tra town, Thua Thien Hue province, about 12 km from the city center.

Construction of the Tomb of Minh Mang began in 1840 and was completed in 1843 under the direction of Emperor Thieu Tri, the second son of Emperor Minh Mang. The tomb covers an area of 117 hectares, arranged in the traditional Hue imperial architecture style along a divine axis, including:

  • Dai Hong Mon: The main gate of the tomb, designed in a three-arched style with eight roofs.
  • Ta Huu Nghi Mon: Two small gates located on either side of the Dai Hong Mon.
  • Sân Chầu: The courtyard where the emperor would address his officials.
  • Nha Bia: The monument where the achievements of Emperor Minh Mang are recorded.
  • Sân Tế: The space for court rituals.
  • Hien Duc Mon: The second gate of the tomb, also built in a three-arched style with eight roofs.
  • Dien Sung An: The hall dedicated to Emperor Minh Mang and the Empress.
  • Ho Trung Minh: A large lake located in front of Dien Sung An.
  • Minh Lau: A palace on an island in Ho Trung Minh.
  • Ho Tan Nguyet: A smaller lake behind Dien Sung An.
  • Cổng Tam Quan Quang Minh Chính Trực: The third gate of the tomb, built in a one-tiered eight-roof style.
  • Buu Thanh: The emperor’s tomb, constructed from stone blocks, square-shaped, and 12 meters high.

The Tomb of Minh Mang is a grand and imposing architectural work, showcasing the majesty of the Nguyen Dynasty. It was constructed using rare materials like marble, gold, and silver, with intricate decorations and patterns reflecting Vietnamese cultural heritage.

Tomb of Gia Long – Thien Tho Tomb – The Resting Place of the Founder of the Nguyen Dynasty

The Tomb of Gia Long, or Thien Tho Tomb, is the burial site of Emperor Gia Long, the founder of the Nguyen Dynasty. Located about 20 km west of Hue city center, on Thien Tho Mountain in Huong Tho commune, Hương Tra district.

Construction of the Tomb of Gia Long took place over 6 years (1814-1820) in the style of Nguyen Dynasty imperial architecture. The tomb complex includes several unique architectural features, reflecting the passage of time.

  • Tam Quan Gate: The main gate leading to the tomb, designed in a three-arched style with the inscription “Thien Tho.”
  • Thien Tho Dien: The central hall of the tomb, built in the shape of the character “Dinh” and housing the tablets of Emperor Gia Long and the Empress.
  • Hau Lang: The tomb area where Emperor Gia Long and the Empress rest, built in a “T” shape with two side-by-side stone tombs.

The Tomb of Gia Long features ancient, serene beauty, surrounded by a forest of 42 large and small hills. The site is cool and peaceful, symbolizing the emperor’s enduring love and fidelity to the Empress, with the adjacent stone tombs representing their eternal companionship.

Tomb of Dong Khanh – Preserving the Cultural and Historical Values of the Nguyen Dynasty

The Tomb of Dong Khanh is the resting place of Emperor Dong Khanh, the ninth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. Located in Tho Tho village, Thuy Xuan ward, Hue city, the tomb is situated between the Tomb of Thieu Tri and the Tomb of Tu Duc.

Construction of the Tomb of Dong Khanh began in 1888, after the emperor’s death at the age of 25. However, due to historical events, the construction was completed in 1923, spanning four reigns of the Nguyen Dynasty. Consequently, the tomb reflects a unique blend of traditional and modern architectural styles.

Highlights of the Tomb of Dong Khanh

The Tomb of Dong Khanh is a distinctive architectural work, rich in historical and cultural significance from the Nguyen Dynasty. The tomb is set in a picturesque natural landscape, with rolling hills and scenic waterways.

Visitors to the Tomb of Dong Khanh will appreciate the beauty of the architectural structures, immerse in the beautiful natural surroundings, and gain insights into the history and culture of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Tomb of Khai Dinh – The Pinnacle of Eastern-Western Architectural Fusion

The Tomb of Khai Dinh, also known as Ung Tomb, is the burial site of Emperor Khai Dinh, the twelfth emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. Located on the Chao Chu mountain slope in Thuy Bang commune, Huong Thuy district, Thua Thien Hue province, the tomb is about 10 km from Hue city center.

Khai Dinh Tomb
Khai Dinh Tomb

Construction of the Tomb of Khai Dinh began in 1920 and was completed in 1931. The tomb features a distinct blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles, reflecting the emperor’s tastes and preferences.

Architecture

The Tomb of Khai Dinh is built on a relatively small area of approximately 117m x 48.5m.

  • Tam Quan Gate: The main entrance, designed in Indian architectural style with two tall pillars topped by Garuda statues.
  • Dien Tam The: The hall dedicated to Buddha Shakyamuni, Amitabha Buddha, and Medicine Buddha, built in Romanesque style with curved arches.
  • Dien Long An: The hall where a statue of Emperor Khai Dinh is located, constructed in Gothic style with colorful rose windows. The statue is placed on a high pedestal with intricate decorations.

Interior

The interior of the Tomb of Khai Dinh is richly decorated with mosaic tiles, colored glass, and lacquer paintings. The furnishings include precious materials like marble and ebony.

The Tomb of Khai Dinh is a unique architectural achievement representing the fusion of Eastern and Western styles. It is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors, contributing to the beauty of the Hue Imperial Citadel Complex.

Tips for Visiting the Tomb of Emperor Duc Duc

Regardless of where you go, having useful tips can enhance your experience and prevent common issues such as navigation problems or unnecessary mistakes that could affect your visit.

  • Visit During the Early Months of the Year: The weather is usually pleasant, cool, and comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing. It’s also a great time for capturing stunning photos with beautiful sky backgrounds.
  • Use Google Maps: If it’s your first visit, having Google Maps handy will help with navigation, especially if you don’t have a tour guide for a day trip in Hue.
  • Carry Some Cash: Bring a bit of cash to purchase souvenirs and mementos during your visit.
  • Dress Appropriately: Wear historical or respectful attire when visiting the tomb to honor the cultural and historical significance of the site.
  • Consider a Day Trip: If you’re staying in Hoi An or Da Nang, you can book a day trip from Da Nang to Hue through DanangPrivateCar.com. This can make your visit to the Tomb of Duc Duc and other nearby attractions more convenient.

Conclusion

The Tomb of Duc Duc in Hue, located within the grounds of the Hue Imperial Citadel Complex, is an architectural masterpiece bearing the distinct mark of the Nguyen Dynasty—a renowned and culturally rich era. Situated on a lush green mountain, this tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Gia Long of Hue, the founder of the Nguyen Dynasty. More than just a royal cemetery, the Tomb of Duc Duc in Hue is a revered symbol of Vietnamese culture and tradition.

The gates and distinctive architecture of the Tomb of Duc Duc in Hue tell a vivid story of the past and the cultural values that have been passed down through time. Visitors here will be immersed in the serene atmosphere of the tomb, admiring the intricately sculpted stone statues and the symbolic representations of the power and authority of the Nguyen Dynasty. The fragrance of the surrounding plants and flowers adds to the fresh and tranquil ambiance.

Beyond its architectural beauty, the Tomb of Duc Duc in Hue offers visitors a profound insight into the history, culture, and spirituality of the Vietnamese people.