Tomb of Khai Dinh, Royal mausoleum in Chau Chu Mountain, Vietnam
The Tomb of Khai Dinh sits on Chau Chu Mountain and spreads across multiple terraces with concrete walls, wrought iron gates, and slate roofs. The structure rises up the hillside in geometric formations, building toward a main palace at the top.
Emperor Khai Dinh started construction in 1920, but his son Bao Dai finished the tomb in 1931 after the emperor died in 1925. The lengthy building process reflected the political challenges and care needed for such an important imperial project.
The architecture blends Vietnamese traditions with European styles, where you can see Gothic, Baroque, and Hindu decorative details throughout. This mixing of different influences shows how the emperor looked outward while maintaining local identity.
Reaching the complex involves climbing stairs at various levels, especially to reach the main palace at the top. Wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the different sections at your own pace.
Inside the Thien Dinh Palace, thousands of glass and porcelain fragments form intricate mosaics on the walls and surfaces. Three large dragon murals painted on the ceiling add another layer to this detailed decoration inside.
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