The Tiger Fighting Arena, which has endured for over 200 years, is one of the most magnificent, grand, and unique architectural structures in Asia. This remarkable arena still preserves its ancient architectural charm to this day, making it an ideal tourist destination when visiting Hue.
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Introduction to Tiger Fighting Arena
With a history of construction and formation of over 200 years, Tiger Fighting Arena, located approximately 3km from the city center of Hue, is a point of interest with many unrevealed mysteries. Throughout its history, the Tiger Fighting Arena is considered a unique architectural marvel in Asia, built during the reign of King Minh Mang. It was once the site of many life-and-death battles between elephants and tigers. In your journey to explore the beauty of this region, you must not overlook the unique Tiger Fighting Arena here.
Directions to the Tiger Fighting Arena
As it is located in the city, you can easily get to the Tiger Fighting Arena by motorbike, taxi, or private car. If you prefer to explore independently, renting a motorbike in Hue is a good option. With a motorbike rental, you can freely explore many other places such as Thien Mu Pagoda, the Imperial City of Hue, etc. Additionally, if you enjoy riding a motorbike but cannot drive yourself, you can book the motorbike tour service in Hue from DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com. They are the leading provider of motorbike tour services in Hue.
Furthermore, DanangPrivateCar.com’s private car service in Hue offers you a wonderful trip. With our private car service, it is suitable for families, groups of friends, first-time visitors to Vietnam, with a professional team of drivers with many years of experience ensuring your trip is safe and comfortable.
This architectural masterpiece has several remarkable features:
Exciting Battles at the Tiger Fighting Arena
According to historical records, for over 100 years, the Tiger Fighting Arena has been the venue for battles between two equally powerful species. During the Nguyen dynasty, elephants were seen as symbols of power and strength. Hence, the battles were held to honor the victorious elephants and bring glory to the dynasty. The king himself organized and controlled these battles. For the people of that time, the matches served not only as entertainment but also as a source of inspiration for martial prowess.
The final battle took place under the reign of King Thanh Thai in 1904. This was an extremely thrilling and engaging event, attended by a large number of people and remembered vividly. Built with significant purpose and meaning, over the years, the Tiger Fighting Arena has been considered one of the most unique architectural wonders in the world. While not comparable in scale to the Colosseum in Italy, the Tiger Fighting Arena was the first venue built specifically for battles between elephants and tigers.
Unique Architecture of the Arena
The Tiger Fighting Arena boasts a distinctive architectural style that rivals any other structure. It is an open-air arena with a unique crescent-shaped structure built from brick. The inner and outer walls are 5.8 and 4.75 meters high respectively, with an average thickness of 4.5 meters. The outer wall is sloped in a pedestal-like structure and has tall wooden gates inscribed with the words “Hổ Quyền” (Tiger Fighting) on top. Five tiger pens were built opposite the grandstands.
With its unique architectural style, this destination is likened to a second Roman Colosseum in the world
After the war, the Tiger Fighting Arena fell into disrepair. However, it underwent restoration by the Hue Imperial Citadel Heritage Center in 2019. Despite ongoing renovations, the Tiger Fighting Arena remains a highly sought-after destination for adventurous travelers. Therefore, if you visit this region, be sure to explore this unparalleled Tiger Fighting Arena!
Some prominent images of the Tiger Fighting Arena
Tourist attractions near the Tiger Fighting Arena in Hue
Voi Ré Palace
The Tiger Fighting Arena – Voi Ré site is evidence of the elephant team under the Nguyen dynasty. This architectural structure was used to worship the loyal elephants and was often ceremonially honored during the spring and autumn seasons each year. Voi Ré Palace is built in the “gate” style, with 17 steps leading up to the front gate.
Imperial City of Hue
The Imperial City of Hue is located 4km from the Tiger Fighting Arena. It is one of the most important constructions of the Nguyen dynasty, preserving unique and impressive architecture, reminiscent of the powerful feudal period in Vietnam.
Thuy Bieu Ecotourism Area
Thuy Bieu Ecotourism Area is about 3km from the Tiger Fighting Arena and is a destination for nature lovers. Coming to this rustic village in the heart of Hue city, you will immerse yourself in a peaceful, simple atmosphere, relaxing with herbal baths, cooking by yourself, and enjoying the specialties of the ancient capital.
Dong Khanh Tomb
Dong Khanh Tomb is approximately 4km from the Tiger Fighting Arena and is one of the famous tombs in Hue. The architectural structure was built, renovated, and supplemented over 35 years during the reigns of Kings Dong Khanh, Thanh Thai, Duy Tan, and finally completed under King Khai Dinh’s reign. Dong Khanh Tomb features many new and unique aspects, blending harmoniously between traditional artistic values and Western influences.
In addition to the Tiger Fighting Arena, you can conveniently explore many other famous landmarks such as Hon Chen Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue, etc.
With a history spanning over 200 years, the Tiger Fighting Arena has become one of the greatest and most prominent architectural wonders in Asia. Despite its ups and downs, today, the Tiger Fighting Arena has evolved into an incredibly ideal tourist destination, attracting a large number of enthusiasts eager to explore its wonders from near and far. If you’re planning a trip to Hue in the near future, don’t forget to include the address of the Tiger Fighting Arena in your travel guide!
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