Buzz
Amidst the Di Linh Plateau, a timeless French colonial structure still stands. This is the Dong Nai Thuong Provincial Governor's Mansion, now serving as the headquarters for the Di Linh District People's Council.
The most ancient structure on the Di Linh Plateau
Constructed in 1900, this mansion was the first of its kind built in the Central Highlands. It predates both the Dak Lak Provincial Governor's Mansion (1907) and the Da Lat Provincial Governor's Mansion (1916). The Dong Nai Thuong Provincial Governor's Mansion is the sole architectural landmark from the early 19th century on the Di Linh Plateau. It was commissioned by Paul Doumer, the French Governor-General of Indochina, following the establishment of Dong Nai Thuong Province in 1899.
In July 1890, Dr. Alexandre Yersin arrived in Di Linh via the route from Phan Ri. Nine years later, Paul Doumer established Dong Nai Thuong Province, with its capital in Djiring. The name Djiring was changed to Di Linh in 1958 by the Ngo Dinh Diem government. Since then, the name and the historic structure have become inseparable from the highland region. Thus, the Provincial Governor's Mansion holds immense historical significance.
The building's distinctly French architectural style
The construction of the building was assigned to Cunhac, a surveyor and architect. Materials were sourced from Phan Thiet. A large number of local highlanders were mobilized to carry materials on their backs or shoulders, trekking over a hundred kilometers from Phan Thiet. They then crossed the Gia Bac Pass at an elevation of over 1,200 meters. The town hall was completed in 1903, thanks to the efforts of many local laborers. After several renovations, the building now stands as the oldest structure on the Di Linh Plateau and in the Central Highlands region.
The Town Hall features an 8-room design, spanning two floors with an area of approximately 200 square meters. Atop the building rises a tower resembling a rectangular box-shaped clock, exuding classic European style. This architectural masterpiece is deeply intertwined with the formation and development of Di Linh District. Surrounded by vast coffee plantations and numerous scenic spots, it is near landmarks like Brah Yang Mountain (1,874 meters), Yang Doan Mountain (1,812 meters), Kala Lake, and Bobla Waterfall.
Despite over a century of existence, the building retains its original exterior form. Elements such as wooden hallway floors, staircases, window frames, and room doors are regularly maintained. Each year, only minor touch-ups and repairs are done, preserving the initial design. From the floors to the tiles and window grilles, traces of the past century remain intact. These features make it a promising tourist destination on the Di Linh Plateau.
According to Mytour.vn
***
Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnAugust 7, 2024
