Thành Nam Tower – An Ancient Symbol of Nam Dinh Province

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The Nam Dinh Flagpole stands on Tô Hiệu Street in Nam Dinh city. It is not only a picturesque and historic site but also a symbol and source of pride for the people of Nam Dinh.

Thành Nam Tower – An Ancient Symbol of Nam Dinh Province

According to historical documents, in the 19th century, Nam Dinh was one of the four locations chosen by the Nguyen dynasty to build flagpoles. Alongside the flagpoles in Hue (1807), Hanoi (1812), and Bac Ninh (1838), the Nam Dinh Flagpole, or Nam Dinh Tower, was initiated in 1812 and completed in 1843.

This is a significant structure in the ancient city of Nam Dinh, located south of the inner city, in front of the Kinh Thien palace. During the years 1873 and 1883, when the French colonial forces occupied Nam Dinh, the flagpole witnessed fierce battles fought by our people. Many brave individuals, including the heroine Nguyen Thi Trinh (who sacrificed herself on December 11, 1873), fought valiantly on this sacred ground.

After her passing, she was posthumously honored with titles such as “Heroic Virtue” and “Respected Princess” by King Tu Duc and King Thanh Thai. A shrine was established at the flagpole in her memory. In 1945, the Nam Dinh Flagpole proudly raised the red flag with a yellow star to affirm the triumph of the August Revolution in the homeland.

During the period of resistance against the U.S., the flagpole once again served as an observation and combat station for the local militia protecting the Nam Dinh Textile Union. In 1972, U.S. airstrikes bombed the entire flagpole. By 1997, on the occasion of the 43rd anniversary of the city's liberation (1954-1997), the Nam Dinh Flagpole was reconstructed to its original state.

The Nam Dinh Flagpole is located within an area of 1,800 square meters within the provincial museum. To the south, the structure features two artillery guns, and to the east, there is a memorial altar honoring heroes and fallen soldiers. Constructed with dark red aged bricks, the flagpole stands at 23.84 meters, consisting of three parts: the base, the tower body, and the observation deck.

The lower tier of the base has two levels, with the upper tier smaller than the lower one. The square-shaped upper tier has a black-brown tiled floor surrounded by a railing. The lower tier is 2.4 meters tall and 16.32 meters long, with two staircases built on the east and west sides. Inside the lower tier is a shrine dedicated to the heroine Nguyen Thi Trinh and other fallen heroes.

The upper tier is 3.1 meters tall, 11.42 meters long, and adorned with four arched doorways. The eastern door bears the characters 'nghênh húc' (welcoming the morning sun), while the southern doors feature 'hướng quang' (facing the light). The tower body has an octagonal shape, standing at 12.65 meters tall and narrowing as it ascends. On the southern side, a door leads into the interior of the flagpole, with a stone plaque above it engraved with Han characters 'Kỳ đài' and 'Thiệu Trị tam niên phụng tạo'.

The body of the flagpole includes a spiral staircase with 54 steps leading to the observation deck. There are 32 flower-shaped windows on the body. The cylindrical observation deck has four arched doorways facing east, west, south, and north. From the top of the flagpole, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the central area of Nam Dinh city.

In 1962, the Nam Dinh Flagpole was designated a national historical and cultural relic. The Nam Dinh Provincial Museum often organizes exhibitions such as 'Representative Images of Ancient Thành Nam and the Historical Significance of the Nam Dinh Flagpole' with various themes. These exhibitions aim to provide a deeper understanding of a historically tumultuous period for students, scholars, and visitors from afar.

As per Mytour

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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour

MytourJanuary 11, 2023

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of the Nam Dinh Flagpole?

The Nam Dinh Flagpole, completed in 1843, symbolizes pride and history for Nam Dinh. It witnessed key battles during French colonial times and played a role in Vietnam's resistance against the U.S., making it a crucial landmark in the region.

What architectural features characterize the Nam Dinh Flagpole?

The Nam Dinh Flagpole is 23.84 meters tall and features three sections: a base, a tower body, and an observation deck. Its design includes dark red bricks, 54 spiral staircase steps, and 32 flower-shaped windows, providing stunning city views.

Is the Nam Dinh Flagpole open to visitors and tourists?

Yes, the Nam Dinh Flagpole is open to visitors. It is located within a provincial museum area that hosts exhibitions, allowing guests to learn about the flagpole's historical significance and enjoy its panoramic views of Nam Dinh city.

How did the Nam Dinh Flagpole contribute to local history during the wars?

During the French colonial occupation and the Vietnam War, the Nam Dinh Flagpole served as a combat observation station and a site of resistance, where local militia members protected significant landmarks, embodying the spirit of bravery among the locals.

What events or exhibitions are held at the Nam Dinh Provincial Museum?

The Nam Dinh Provincial Museum organizes exhibitions that explore the historical significance of the Nam Dinh Flagpole and the ancient city of Thành Nam. These exhibitions cater to students and scholars, enhancing understanding of Vietnam's rich history.