Top 10 best explanatory essays about President Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum for grade 8.

President Ho Chi Minh is a deeply respected leader of the Vietnamese people. His passing left the nation in profound grief.

In his will, Ho Chi Minh requested to be cremated and have his ashes spread across the three regions of Vietnam. However, in respect to his wishes and the affection of the people, the Political Bureau decided to preserve his body so that citizens, particularly those from the south, as well as international visitors, could come to pay their respects. As a result, his mausoleum holds great significance for both the Vietnamese people and international friends.

The mausoleum was constructed in 1973 and completed in 1975 at the site of the old podium in Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh had led significant rallies. The mausoleum was built to preserve his body using the embalming technology from the Soviet Union, with assistance from Soviet experts.

Ba Dinh Square holds all the affection the people have for Ho Chi Minh. The design and construction of the mausoleum were carried out with meticulous care. The structure is designed to be highly durable, resistant to bombs and earthquakes of up to 7 on the Richter scale. There is also a special flood protection system in place in case of dyke breaches in Hanoi. The glass coffin is designed to withstand heavy mechanical pressure. Furthermore, the mausoleum includes a special chamber to keep the body intact in case of wartime emergencies.

The materials used to construct the mausoleum came from all over the country, each piece carrying the love and admiration of the people for Ho Chi Minh. Sand was brought from the Hòa Bình river by the Mường ethnic group; pebbles were sourced from the rivers of Sơn Dương, Chiêm Hoá, Ngòi Thìa, Tuyên Quang; stones came from Thanh Hóa, Hoa, and Non Nước mountains; gravel was transported from the Hoàng Thi quarry in Yên Bái, and sand was gathered from Thanh Xuyên (Thái Nguyên). The people from the Trường Sơn range also contributed 16 types of precious woods.

Various types of trees were brought to the site, including chò nâu from Đền Hùng, hoa ban from Điện Biên, and bamboo from Cao Bằng. Youth groups of the time participated in activities like polishing stones, weeding, and planting trees. The lighting system and preservation of Ho Chi Minh's body were managed by Soviet specialists.

The Soviet Union sent 20,000 polished marble and granite slabs to decorate the mausoleum. This gave the site a serene beauty that resonates deeply with the Vietnamese people. At the top of the mausoleum, there is an inscription reading 'President Ho Chi Minh,' crafted from dark red jade from Cao Bằng. The mausoleum's doors are made from precious woods from the Central Highlands, and the foyer is adorned with rose marble. The phrase 'Nothing is more precious than Independence and Freedom,' along with Ho Chi Minh's signature, is highlighted in gold leaf. The mausoleum also houses 200 wooden doors, made from various precious woods sent by people from the southern regions, the Central Highlands, Quảng Nam, and Da Nang, and crafted by artisans from Nam Hà, Hà Bắc, and Nghệ An.

The doors to the chamber housing the body were crafted by a father-son duo from Gia Hòa village. On each side of the door, there are two frangipani trees. The mausoleum's grounds feature 79 immortal cycad trees, symbolizing Ho Chi Minh's 79 years. To the north and south of the mausoleum, there are rows of bamboo, symbolizing Vietnam. There are always two guards standing at attention at the mausoleum's entrance, changing shifts every hour. Inside the mausoleum, the preserved body is displayed on a bed made of bronze, intricately designed with lotus motifs. The three sides of the bed are made of glass to withstand high impact. The top of the bed is metallic, and it is equipped with lighting and air conditioning systems. The body is housed on a stone platform with an automated lift system. The mausoleum is square, with doors facing east, and ceremonial platforms for visitors during major holidays on the south and north sides.

In front of the mausoleum lies Ba Dinh Square, which features a parade and review area, as well as a lush green lawn that remains vibrant throughout the year. The road leading straight through the lawn is called Bắc Sơn Street, lined with red roses and peach blossoms. At the end of the street is the War Memorial. To the west of the square is the Ho Chi Minh Memorial complex, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Museum and his stilt house.

Though it has been over 50 years since Ho Chi Minh's passing, he continues to live in the hearts and minds of the Vietnamese people. The constant flow of visitors to his mausoleum symbolizes the enduring connection between the people and their great leader. This space allows future generations to learn more about him and feel the warmth and greatness of his legacy.

Vietnam is home to numerous beautiful landmarks that hold distinct meanings and values. Among these, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum stands out as a symbol of Vietnam's cultural and natural beauty. Located at the former site of a large podium in Ba Dinh Square, where the late leader Ho Chi Minh presided over significant events, the mausoleum was completed in 1975.

In his will, Ho Chi Minh expressed his wish to be cremated, with his ashes scattered across the three regions of Vietnam. However, to honor his wishes and the deep affection of the people, the Vietnamese Politburo decided to preserve his body so that people, especially those from the South, could pay their respects. This led to the creation of the mausoleum. The building process reflected the dedication and love of the people at that time, with each step carried out with meticulous attention, combining simplicity and approachability in a distinctly Vietnamese style. The structure was designed to be extremely durable, resistant to bombs, bullets, and even earthquakes of up to seven on the Richter scale.

Additionally, the mausoleum includes protective measures against flooding in case the dikes of Hanoi break. The glass tomb is capable of withstanding large mechanical forces. A “special chamber” was also included in the design to preserve the body in the event of war. The construction materials came from all over Vietnam, symbolizing the people's affection for the leader: sand from the streams of Hoa Binh brought by the Mường people; pebbles from streams in Sơn Dương, Chiêm Hoá, Ngòi Thìa, Tuyên Quang; chosen stones from various regions including Thanh Hóa, Non Nước; crushed stones from the Hoàng Thi quarry in Yên Bái; and sand from Thanh Xuyên (Thái Nguyên).

Wood from 16 different types of trees along the Trường Sơn range was sent to contribute to the mausoleum. Trees from across the country, such as chò nâu from Đền Hùng, ban flowers from Điện Biên – Lai Châu, and bamboo from Cao Bằng, were brought in as well. Young people at the time participated in activities such as polishing stones, weeding, and planting trees. The lighting and preservation systems were designed by Soviet experts, and the Soviet Union also sent 20,000 polished granite and marble tiles to decorate the mausoleum.

Thanks to these materials, the architecture and surroundings of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are unique, blending harmoniously with the beauty of all three regions. At the top of the mausoleum, the name “President Ho Chi Minh” is inscribed in dark red Cao Bằng jade. The mausoleum’s doors are made from precious wood from the Central Highlands. The front hall is lined with pinkish-red marble, bearing the inscription “Nothing is more precious than Independence and Freedom” along with Ho Chi Minh's signature in gold. The mausoleum features 200 doors made of fine wood, donated by the people of the South, Central Highlands, Quảng Nam – Đà Nẵng, and the soldiers from the Trường Sơn range, and crafted by skilled carpenters from Nam Hà, Hà Bắc, and Nghệ An.

The doors leading to the room where the body is kept were crafted by a father and son team of artisans from Gia Hòa village. On either side of the main doors stand two frangipani trees. In front and behind the mausoleum are 79 cycads, symbolizing the 79 years of Ho Chi Minh's life. On the southern and northern sides are two rows of bamboo, the plant symbolizing Vietnam. There are always two guards at the mausoleum entrance, changing shifts every hour. Inside, the body lies on a marble platform, surrounded by two large national and party flags made from 4,000 pieces of pink quartz from Thanh Hóa, arranged in the shape of a hammer and sickle, with a golden star made from light yellow marble.

Ho Chi Minh's body is placed inside a glass casket. Through the transparent glass, his body is visible, dressed in faded khaki clothes, with a pair of rubber sandals at his feet. Whenever visitors come to pay their respects, four soldiers stand guard. The glass casket itself is a work of art and engineering created by skilled craftsmen from Vietnam and the Soviet Union. The bed is made of bronze, featuring stylized lotus patterns, with three sides covered in glass to withstand strong impacts. The top is made of metal, with a lighting and automatic climate control system. The bed is placed on a stone pedestal with an automatic elevator system. The mausoleum is square in shape, with the entrance facing east, and on the south and north sides are two platforms for ceremonies during major events.

In front of the mausoleum lies Ba Dinh Square, with a road designated for military parades and inspections, and a lush green grassy area that remains vibrant throughout the year. Beyond the lawn is Bắc Sơn Street, lined with red roses and peach blossoms. At the end of Bắc Sơn Street stands the Martyrs’ Memorial. On the western side of the square is the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Museum and his stilt house.

The mausoleum is open five days a week: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, and is closed for maintenance in October and November. It not only preserves the affection of the Vietnamese people for Ho Chi Minh but also reflects the love and respect of the Soviet Union for the leader.

Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum allows one to be near the leader, immerse in the warm, sacred, yet simple and familiar atmosphere, feel a sense of tranquility, and further develop a deep affection and respect for the great father, “who has no children but millions of children,” as poet Tố Hữu once wrote: “Loving Uncle Ho, my heart is purer.”

President Ho Chi Minh is a remarkable leader in Vietnam's history, having played an essential role in the nation's struggle for independence and its preservation. His contributions are immortalized in an iconic architectural monument, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

The mausoleum, also known as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, is situated at the location of the former podium in Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh once led major gatherings and declared the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Construction officially began on September 2, 1973, and it was completed and inaugurated on August 29, 1975. The decision to preserve and display his body was made to fulfill the people's wishes, allowing citizens across the nation, especially from the South, as well as international visitors, to pay their respects.

The mausoleum consists of three sections, standing at a total height of 21.6 meters. The uppermost part features a three-tiered roof, with the inscription “President Ho Chi Minh” in stone on the front. The entry hall displays the phrase “Nothing is more precious than Independence and Freedom,” alongside Ho Chi Minh's signature in gold. The lower part of the mausoleum has a stepped platform, while the central section houses the tomb and surrounding corridors and staircases.

The design and construction of the mausoleum are a testament to the dedication and affection of the Vietnamese people and international friends towards President Ho Chi Minh. Building materials were sourced from across the country: sand from Hoa Binh, pebbles from Chiêm Hoá and Tuyên Quang; stones from Thanh Hóa, Chùa Thầy, and Yên Bái; and rare woods and plants from various regions, such as chò nâu from Đền Hùng, ban flowers from Điện Biên, and bamboo from Cao Bằng. Soviet experts also provided technical assistance. The completed mausoleum is designed to be highly durable, capable of withstanding bombs, bullets, and earthquakes up to a magnitude of 7. The glass casket is built to resist intense mechanical forces.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of Vietnam's most visited tourist destinations, drawing more than 15,000 visitors each week. Many individuals and groups also visit on national holidays and important anniversaries.

There is no entrance fee, but visitors are required to adhere to specific guidelines, including dressing appropriately, refraining from taking photos or videos, turning off phones, and maintaining silence. The mausoleum is open five days a week—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with closures for maintenance in October and November. Special care is taken in welcoming visitors, especially war veterans and those who contributed to the revolution.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has also inspired countless poets and artists. The following lines, for instance, come from a famous poem, reflecting the emotions of visitors:

I come from the South to visit Uncle Ho's Mausoleum
Seeing the endless rows of bamboo in the mist
Oh! The green bamboo of Vietnam
In storms and rains, it stands tall.

(“Visiting Uncle Ho's Mausoleum” – Viễn Phương)

Each day, thousands of people visit the mausoleum, bringing with them deep respect and love for President Ho Chi Minh, the beloved father of the Vietnamese people. Although the war is nearly half a century behind us, this admiration remains as strong as ever, just like the unbroken flow of visitors paying tribute to him.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum stands not only as a historical witness but also as a reminder for every Vietnamese citizen to “remember the source of the water we drink,” to continually improve ourselves and contribute to the development of a prosperous, democratic, just, and civilized Vietnam.

Hanoi is the heart of Vietnam, and Ba Dinh Square is the heart of Hanoi. It is here that the capital's significant events, as well as those of the nation, have taken place. This area was originally the West Gate of the ancient Hanoi citadel. During the French colonial period, the colonialists destroyed the citadel and created a small garden called the Puginier roundabout. In 1945, it was named Ba Dinh Garden, a name that recalls the Ba Dinh region in Thanh Hoa province, where a resistance uprising against the French took place from September 1886 to January 1887.

After the success of the August Revolution, President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence at Ba Dinh Square, marking the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. This historic event, along with the square's name, became known worldwide. On September 2, 1945, half a million people from Hanoi and nearby areas gathered at the square for the Independence Declaration ceremony. The stage was set in the middle of the square, with red fabric draped on all four sides, and a large golden five-pointed star in the center. At 2 PM, the members of the provisional government took their place on the stage. Half a million people stood still, moved, and listened attentively to the leader’s words.

After President Ho finished speaking, the provisional government swore an oath. Following this, Minister of the Interior Vo Nguyen Giap presented the domestic situation and the government's policies. Minister of Propaganda Tran Huy Lieu reported on the removal of the royal seals in Hue and presented the people with the seals and sword that symbolized the authority of the Nguyen dynasty, which Bao Dai had surrendered to the Revolution. Representative of the Viet Minh General Headquarters, Nguyen Luong Bang, spoke about the people's struggle and called for unity to strengthen the revolution. The gathering ended with a peaceful demonstration on the streets.

On September 9, 1969, six days after President Ho's passing, a solemn memorial service was held at the same square. One hundred thousand people from Hanoi and surrounding areas, along with 34 international delegations, attended the ceremony. Today, the central area of Ba Dinh Square – the western side – is the site of President Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum. The mausoleum was completed after two years of construction, and it was officially inaugurated on August 19, 1975. The structure stands 21.6 meters tall and consists of three levels. The lower level has multiple steps and a stage for the government during ceremonies. The middle section is the core of the mausoleum, containing the hall where Ho Chi Minh's body is displayed, with corridors and stairs. The upper section is the roof, designed in the shape of a blooming lotus. The main entrance of the mausoleum features the inscription 'President Ho Chi Minh' in dark red jade-like stone.

The mausoleum serves as the resting place for President Ho Chi Minh's body. UNESCO honored him as a national liberation hero and a world cultural figure on the 100th anniversary of his birth (1890–1990). The construction of the mausoleum is a testament to the creativity and hard work of many scientists and workers from Vietnam and the Soviet Union, as a tribute to President Ho and a symbol of the Vietnam-Soviet friendship.

In front of the mausoleum is a square that measures 320 meters in length and 100 meters in width, providing space for 200,000 people to gather for rallies. The square features 168 green lawn sections and a wide 1.4-meter path in between. In the center, before the mausoleum, stands a 25-meter tall flagpole. Since 1954, several structures have been added around Ba Dinh Square, alongside the old colonial buildings. These include the Ba Dinh Hall (completed in 1963, demolished in 2008 for the construction of the new National Assembly Building), the Ho Chi Minh Museum (completed in 1990), and the Memorial for Fallen Heroes (completed in 1994). Other significant smaller structures in the square include the One Pillar Pagoda, the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House at the Presidential Palace, where he lived and worked, as well as the fish pond, garden, coconut trees, and hibiscus bushes...

All of these have been immortalized in Vietnamese poetry. Furthermore, with the discovery of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long next to the square, Ba Dinh has become even more meaningful and sacred. Ba Dinh Square and Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum are now cherished as sacred spaces for Hanoi and the entire nation.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, also known as the Ho Chi Minh Memorial or Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh. This mausoleum is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of the nation’s heritage. It stands on the site of the former podium in Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh led major political gatherings and read the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Construction of the mausoleum began on September 2, 1973.

The materials for its construction were sourced from all corners of the country. Sand was brought from Kim Boi in Hoa Binh Province by the Muong people; pebbles from streams in Son Duong, Chiêm Hóa, and Ngòi Thìa; special stones used in the construction came from Thanh Hóa, Hoa (from the Thay Pagoda), and Non Nuoc Mountain. Various woods were contributed from across Vietnam, including valuable species from the Central Highlands and the North. Young people participated in labor activities like polishing stones and planting trees. The electrical systems for lighting and the preservation of Ho Chi Minh’s body were designed by Soviet experts, who also provided 20,000 tons of polished granite and marble for the mausoleum’s decoration.

At the top of the mausoleum is the inscription “President Ho Chi Minh” crafted from dark red Cao Bang jade. The entrance doors are made from precious timber sourced from the Central Highlands. The front hall features marble with pink veining, serving as a backdrop for the famous quote “Nothing is more precious than independence and freedom” and Ho Chi Minh’s signature, gilded in gold. Inside, 200 doors are crafted from rare woods, donated by the people of the South, Central Highlands, and Quang Nam – Da Nang. The doors leading to the tomb chamber were made by a father and son team from Gia Hoa village. Flanking the main doors are two majestic frangipani trees, and the mausoleum’s grounds are adorned with 79 trees of the “van tuê” variety, symbolizing Ho Chi Minh’s 79 years of life. On the southern and northern sides, rows of bamboo—symbolizing Vietnam’s national spirit—line the mausoleum. Two guards stand at attention by the entrance, with shifts changing every hour.

At the heart of the mausoleum is the tomb chamber, encased in West Hanoi marble. On the walls hang two large national flags and party flags made from 4,000 pieces of Thanh Hóa pink jade, with the emblem of the hammer and sickle and the gold star crafted from bright yellow marble. Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body is displayed in a glass casket. Through the transparent glass, his figure is seen wearing his faded khaki outfit, with a pair of rubber sandals placed at his feet. During visits, four soldiers stand guard beside the casket. The casket is a masterpiece of engineering and artistry, crafted by expert workers from both Vietnam and the Soviet Union. The bed on which the casket rests is made of copper, with stylized lotus flower patterns. The bed’s three sides are made of impact-resistant glass, and the canopy is metal, equipped with a lighting and air-conditioning system. The bed rests on a stone platform with an automatic elevator system.

The mausoleum is square in shape, with each side measuring 30 meters. The entrance faces east, while the southern and northern sides feature two large ceremonial stages, each 65 meters long, for special occasions. In front of the mausoleum lies Ba Dinh Square, with a parade route, a military review area, and a 380-meter-long grassy lawn divided into 240 green squares, which remain vibrant throughout the seasons. Before the mausoleum stands a flagpole, where the flag-raising ceremony takes place daily at 6:00 AM (in summer) or 6:30 AM (in winter), and the flag-lowering ceremony at 9:00 PM.

Directly beyond the lawn is Bac Son Street, lined with red roses and peach blossoms. At the end of the street is the Martyrs’ Memorial. On the west side of the square is the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Area, which houses the Ho Chi Minh Museum and his stilt house. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is frequently visited by large delegations from both domestic and foreign locations.

Each week, over 15,000 people visit the mausoleum. Many individuals and groups visit on national holidays and significant anniversaries. One can truly feel the solemnity of the mausoleum and the respect from the ordinary citizens who come to pay their respects.

The mausoleum faces east, welcoming the sunrise, with Ba Dinh Square, the historical site of Ho Chi Minh’s Declaration of Independence on September 2, 1945, right in front. The square is 320 meters long and 100 meters wide, divided into 240 green squares, symbolizing the mats that were once laid out in rural villages for important ceremonies. The western side of the square houses the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Area, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Museum, his stilt house, a fish pond, a vegetable garden, coconut groves, and hibiscus hedges. All of this has been immortalized in Vietnamese poetry:

“You led me into Uncle Ho’s world

The mango garden with white blossoms swaying in the breeze

There’s a quiet pond bubbling with fish and shrimp

And sweet-smelling pomelos and oranges beneath the shade of coconut trees.”

(To Huu)

Arriving in Hanoi means entering a thousand-year-old capital rich in cultural heritage, at the very heart of Vietnam's economic, political, and cultural life. But visiting Hanoi also means coming face-to-face with significant historical and cultural landmarks, among which the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the most frequently visited by both locals and tourists alike.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, also known as Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, is where the body of President Ho Chi Minh is preserved, marking the final resting place of a great national leader. It is located along Hung Vuong Street, in Hanoi.

The mausoleum’s construction began on September 2, 1973, and after nearly two years of work, it was completed and inaugurated on August 29, 1975. It was built on the exact spot of the former podium in Ba Dinh Square – the historic location where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence, founding the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

The mausoleum was designed with help from experts from the Soviet Union, featuring a total height of 21.6 meters and a width of 41.2 meters, forming a stepped structure. The exterior is covered in gray stone. At the top of the mausoleum, the inscription “President Ho Chi Minh” is carved in red jade. The doors are made from precious woods. In front of the mausoleum, 79 “van tue” trees have been planted, each symbolizing the 79 years of Ho Chi Minh’s life. Flanking the structure are rows of bamboo, representing the resilience and spirit of the Vietnamese people.

The room where Ho Chi Minh’s body is preserved lies at the center of the mausoleum. Through the glass casing, visitors can see the body of the late president in his simple khaki outfit, with a pair of rubber sandals placed at his feet. The Ba Dinh Square in front of the mausoleum is reserved for military parades and reviews. Guards are always on duty to protect the mausoleum. Nearby, the Ho Chi Minh Museum offers further insight into his life and legacy.

Each day, the flag-raising ceremony is held at 6:00 AM (summer) or 6:30 AM (winter), while the flag-lowering ceremony takes place in the evening. The mausoleum is open for visits on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. Visitors must wait in line and dress appropriately in respectful attire. Photography and filming are prohibited, and visitors are expected to maintain a quiet demeanor to preserve the solemn atmosphere of the site.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum holds immense significance for the people of Vietnam. It provides an opportunity for every citizen, from all corners of the nation, to pay homage to the great leader who brought independence and freedom to the country. The mausoleum is also a place for international friends to visit, offering them a chance to express their admiration and respect for the man who devoted his life to his people and his nation.

Every visit to the mausoleum evokes deep feelings of pride and gratitude within us. It reminds every Vietnamese citizen of the need to strive to preserve and enhance the beauty of our homeland, just as President Ho Chi Minh envisioned.

"Oh, Uncle Ho, your heart is vast beyond measure,

Embracing the entire nation through your life's journey..."

(To Huu)

Uncle Ho, the great president of the nation and a world-renowned cultural figure, led a life that remains an enduring example for all of us. Even though he is no longer with us, his spirit, thoughts, character, and lifestyle continue to inspire. To honor his memory and preserve his legacy, the Vietnamese government and people constructed the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum as a lasting tribute to this great leader.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. It was constructed starting on September 2, 1973, coinciding with the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This site has become deeply associated with several historical events. It is where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence, marking the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. The mausoleum was built over the course of more than two years, and it was officially completed and inaugurated on August 29, 1975.

The mausoleum stands over 20 meters tall and is built in three tiers. The bottom tier is a three-step platform, with the central part of the mausoleum serving as the resting place for Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body. The top tier is the pyramid-shaped roof. The entire structure is intricately carved and decorated with granite. At the top of the mausoleum is the inscription “President Ho Chi Minh” in bold lettering. The entrance area is adorned with precious stones, featuring the famous red inscription, “Nothing is more precious than independence and freedom,” alongside Ho Chi Minh's signature, which has been gilded in gold. Two large flowering trees stand on either side of the entrance, adding to the mausoleum's grandeur.

What makes the mausoleum particularly special is the lush greenery that surrounds it. Notably, there are 79 cycad trees, symbolizing the 79 years of Ho Chi Minh’s life. On both the northern and southern sides are rows of bamboo, symbolizing the vitality, spirit, and resilience of the Vietnamese people. We are reminded of the powerful imagery of the bamboo groves in Viễn Phương’s poem “Visiting Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum,” which beautifully describes the strength of the bamboo surrounding the mausoleum:

"I came from the South to visit Uncle's mausoleum,

And saw the endless rows of bamboo in the mist,

Oh, the green bamboo of Vietnam,

Through storms and rain, it stands tall..."

The majestic bamboo stands as a symbol of eternity, much like the soldiers who stand guard over Uncle Ho’s final rest. Surrounding the mausoleum, many of the flowers Ho Chi Minh loved have been planted, sent from all regions of the country, adding warmth and joy to the space. These flowers and trees from across the nation serve as a reminder of the people who come together in reverence for their leader, bringing joy to his resting place. The mausoleum is open five days a week, specifically on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. During holidays, the number of visitors increases significantly.

As a result, strict regulations are followed when visiting the mausoleum, including orderly queues, the storing of personal belongings, and especially the prohibition of filming and photography when paying respects to Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body. These rules contribute to maintaining the solemnity of the site. Visitors willingly comply with these regulations, all eager to honor the great president of Vietnam.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a place that preserves the precious memories of the man who gave so much for his people. Each visit to the mausoleum fills us with indescribable emotions – feelings of pride, sorrow, and remembrance. These emotions are also expressed in the words of poet Viễn Phương, who, upon leaving the mausoleum, found it hard to part from the sacred space:

"...Uncle rests peacefully in his eternal sleep,

Under the soft glow of a gentle moon,

Though we know the blue sky is forever,

Why does it hurt so deeply in my heart?

Tomorrow I return to the South with tears in my eyes,

I wish I were a bird singing around Uncle’s mausoleum,

Or a fragrant flower blooming near his resting place,

Or the bamboo standing true to its loyalty here."

The war may have ended nearly half a century ago, but the sorrow and deep respect that the people of Vietnam feel for Uncle Ho, the beloved father of the nation, remain ever-present. The crowds that gather to visit his mausoleum seem endless, a testament to the enduring affection and reverence for the great leader.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, along with the surrounding Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh's stilt house, the gardens, and more, was completed and inaugurated on August 29, 1975, after two years of construction. The mausoleum faces east, overlooking the historic Ba Dinh Square. It is made up of three tiers, standing 21.6 meters tall. The lower level is designed with multiple steps, featuring a platform for official gatherings. The central section houses the mausoleum's core, where Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body rests, surrounded by hallways and stairways. The top tier has a stylized lotus-shaped roof. The front of the mausoleum bears the inscription "President Ho Chi Minh" in deep red jadeite stone.

This mausoleum houses the body of President Ho Chi Minh, the Father of the Nation, who was posthumously honored by UNESCO as a World Cultural Figure and a National Liberation Hero in commemoration of his 100th birthday in 1990. The construction of the mausoleum is the result of the creative work of many scientists and workers from both Vietnam and the Soviet Union, symbolizing the deep respect for Ho Chi Minh and the close friendship between the two nations.

The mausoleum is oriented to the east to greet the rising sun, with Ba Dinh Square, the site of many pivotal events in Vietnamese history, located right in front. It was here that, on September 2, 1945, Ho Chi Minh stood before the people to proclaim Vietnam's independence, a moment that marked the birth of a free and sovereign nation. Ba Dinh Square, 320 meters long and 100 meters wide, is divided into 240 lush green squares, symbolizing the mats traditionally spread during important ceremonies in rural Vietnam. The western side of the square is home to the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Area, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Museum, his stilt house, the fish pond, the garden, and rows of coconut trees, all immortalized in Vietnamese poetry:

"You lead me into Uncle’s realm of the past,

The mango trees bloom with white flowers swaying in the breeze,

There’s a still pond teeming with fish and shrimp,

The air is fragrant with citrus and coconut trees."

(To Huu)

Behind the Presidential Palace, there is a narrow gravel path lined with mango trees, leading to a simple, modest stilt house nestled among the trees. The house is surrounded by a hibiscus fence, and its entrance is made of intertwined branches. This was Ho Chi Minh’s residence and workplace from May 17, 1958, until his death. The lower floor was where he often held meetings with the Politburo, while the upper floor consisted of two small rooms: one where he worked and the other served as his bedroom, furnished with simple, humble items. In front of the house is a pond where Ho Chi Minh raised fish, with orchids blooming around its edges all year round.

Behind the house is a fruit garden, home to hundreds of rare plants, some of which were sent from different regions of Vietnam, such as the milk fruit from the southern people in 1954, the Phuc Trach grapefruit, the Biên Hòa orange, and the Xuân Mai lemon. Other plants include the Hương Cần mandarin, the Thiện Phiến apple, and even foreign species like the flower-bearing trees surrounding the pond and the royal coconut palm from the Caribbean.

People from all parts of Vietnam, as well as international visitors to Hanoi, flock to the mausoleum, eager to pay their respects to Ho Chi Minh and stroll through Ba Dinh Square, a place that holds immense historical significance. Whenever the mausoleum is mentioned, it stirs emotions of deep affection and longing:

"Day after day, the people pass by, lost in memories,

Each one offering a flower, remembering 79 springs of his life."

("Visiting the Mausoleum" — Viễn Phương)

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, also known as the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, or simply Uncle Ho's Mausoleum, is the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh's embalmed body. The project officially began on September 2, 1973, on the site of the former podium in Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh had presided over many significant public rallies.

The mausoleum was completed and opened on August 29, 1975. It is built in three layers, standing 21.6 meters tall. The lower layer has a stepped base, while the central structure houses the main chamber with the embalmed body, as well as hallways and stairways. The four exterior sides are adorned with square granite columns, and the uppermost layer features a pyramid-like roof. On the front, the inscription reads "President Ho Chi Minh" in dark red jade stone. The mausoleum follows a socialist-realist architectural style, inspired by Lenin's Mausoleum.

It was built on the site of the old podium at Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh had delivered his historic speech on September 2, 1945, proclaiming Vietnam’s independence and the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. After his passing, the construction of the mausoleum began on September 2, 1973. Materials were sourced from across Vietnam: sand from Kim Boi River in Hoa Binh, pebbles from streams in Son Duong, and stone from places like Thanh Hoa and Non Nuoc Mountain. Local communities contributed valuable resources, including rare wood species and plants. Volunteers, especially the youth, helped with labor tasks like polishing stones and planting trees. The lighting, structural design, and preservation of Ho Chi Minh’s body were handled by Soviet experts.

At the top of the mausoleum, the inscription "President Ho Chi Minh" is made of deep red jade stone. The mausoleum's doors are crafted from precious wood from the Central Highlands, while the entryway is inscribed with the phrase "Nothing is more precious than independence and freedom" alongside Ho Chi Minh's golden signature. On either side of the entrance are two plumeria trees, and in front and behind the mausoleum stand 79 evergreen trees, representing the 79 years of Ho Chi Minh's life. On the north and south sides of the mausoleum, two rows of bamboo trees, symbolizing Vietnam, are planted. Two guards stand at attention in front of the mausoleum at all times.

In the center of the mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh's body is displayed in a glass casket, intricately carved with cloud motifs, set on a stone pedestal. Through the transparent glass, visitors can see the President dressed in a khaki suit, with a pair of rubber sandals at his feet. The mausoleum is square-shaped, with each side measuring 30 meters. Its entrance faces east, and the southern and northern sides feature two long platforms, each 65 meters, used for ceremonies during important national holidays. In front of the mausoleum lies Ba Dinh Square, a 380-meter long lawn divided into 240 green sections. The flagpole in front of the mausoleum raises the national flag at 6 a.m. and lowers it at 9 p.m. daily. Continuing from the lawn is Bac Son Street, lined with red roses and peach blossoms. At the end of Bac Son Street stands the Martyrs' Memorial Statue.

To the west of the square is the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Area, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Museum and the stilt house where he lived and worked. The mausoleum regularly receives visitors from all over Vietnam and around the world. More than 15,000 people visit the mausoleum each week, with many arriving on national holidays or important commemorative dates. Visitors can feel the solemn atmosphere and the deep respect the people have for Ho Chi Minh when they enter the mausoleum to pay their respects.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is open five days a week: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. During the hot season (April 1 to October 31), the mausoleum is open from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and during the cold season (November 1 to March 31), from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. On weekends and holidays, the mausoleum remains open for an additional 30 minutes. The mausoleum closes for periodic maintenance in October and November each year.

Visitors must adhere to specific rules, such as wearing appropriate clothing, refraining from taking photographs, turning off mobile phones, and avoiding bringing flammable items to ensure security and maintain order inside the mausoleum. Visiting the mausoleum is a deeply emotional experience, and as the descendants of Vietnam, we must strive to study well and contribute to the nation’s prosperity, honoring the legacy of our "Uncle Ho" and the title of "Good Grandchildren of Uncle Ho".