Ancient Dien Khanh Citadel, constructed by Lord Nguyen in Dien Khanh town, Khanh Hoa province. This is where numerous significant historical events unfolded.
Nha Trang Tourism – Explore History at Ancient Dien Khanh Citadel
Vietnam has a long-standing feudal history. In the past, kings and rulers built numerous citadels. However, over time and through wars, many citadels have disappeared or suffered significant damage. Currently, in Vietnam, only a few relatively intact ancient citadels remain, such as Thang Long Imperial City, Hue Citadel, and Ancient Dien Khanh Citadel.
Thang Long Imperial City and Hue Citadel are well-known to many Vietnamese people. However, in Khanh Hoa, there is another ancient citadel built during the Nguyen dynasty, located about 10km west of Nha Trang city, known as Ancient Dien Khanh Citadel.
Ancient Dien Khanh Citadel, though not overly large, still retains the original ancient architectural charm. It has witnessed many significant historical events. When exploring Nha Trang, make sure not to miss the opportunity to visit this historic citadel.
Built in 1793 under the reign of Lord Nguyễn Phúc Ánh, Diên Khánh Citadel was strategically envisioned as a long-term stronghold. Recognizing its importance, Nguyễn Ánh was determined to construct Diên Khánh Citadel as a formidable base, a solid defensive belt from afar.
Diên Khánh Ancient Citadel spans approximately 36,000 square meters and features military architecture reminiscent of Vauban, a popular style in Western Europe at that time. The citadel housed the royal palace, with Tuần Vũ palace on the left, Án Sát palace behind, followed by Lãnh Binh palace, Tham Tri palace below, and sturdy warehouses and workshops. Upon completion, Prince Cảnh and Bá Đa Lộc were tasked with overseeing Diên Khánh Citadel.
Diên Khánh Ancient Citadel witnessed the ebbs and flows of feudal society and the struggles of the people of Khánh Hòa in the two monumental battles against the French and the Americans. In 2003, Diên Khánh Citadel underwent restoration, with the four gates repainted, and structural reinforcements at damaged areas.
In 2010, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Khánh Hòa province initiated a restoration project for Diên Khánh Citadel and its surrounding protected areas, aiming to enhance and preserve the historical value. By the end of 2014, the provincial People's Committee decided to relocate administrative and military offices from Diên Khánh Citadel's inner area to transform it into a pedestrian city and gradually restore historical structures for tourism purposes.
According to Mytour
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourAugust 24, 2022