Flag Tower of Hanoi, Military watchtower in Hanoi, Vietnam
The Flag Tower of Hanoi is a 41-meter (about 135 feet) tall watchtower within the Vietnam Military History Museum in Hanoi, Vietnam. The structure features three levels and culminates in an octagonal room at the top.
Built in 1812 during the reign of Emperor Gia Long, the tower originally served to monitor the grounds of the imperial citadel. It remained standing between 1894 and 1897 when the French colonial administration demolished large sections of the Thang Long Citadel.
The name refers to its role as a military landmark and orientation point for the city. Visitors today see the large national flag flying high above the museum, serving as a symbol for the country.
The site lies within the museum grounds and can be visited during opening hours. Access to the top is sometimes restricted, so it is worth asking beforehand.
Three doors carry inscriptions about light, a rare feature in military architecture from that period. The octagonal chamber accommodates up to six people and opens through windows to all cardinal directions.
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