Independence Palace in Saigon, a building that carries not only unique architectural beauty but also a special historical monument of national peace. It is one of the must-visit places when exploring the city of Saigon, marking important chapters in the history of Vietnam. Let’s explore the significance and importance of Independence Palace with VietAIR.
Learning about Independence Palace
Where is Independence Palace?
Independence Palace is located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. This place has become a witness to many important events in the country’s history, especially the events of April 30, 1975 – the Liberation of the South and the reunification of the country.
Origin of the name
Independence Palace is also known by various names, reflecting its changes and transformations throughout its history:
In 1871, after its completion, the palace was named Norodom Palace, to commemorate and honor King Norodom – the king of Cambodia at that time. From 1871 to 1887, it was called Nam Ky Governor’s Palace, under the management of the French governor in Nam Ky. In the period from 1887 to 1945, the place was renamed Independence Palace, reflecting the power and comprehensive control of the French colonial regime.
Around 1955, President of the Republic of Vietnam – Ngo Dinh Diem decided to change the name from Independence Palace to Independence Palace, creating a new name with the meaning of independence, freedom, and sovereignty. Since then, the name Independence Palace has existed and become a symbol of the struggle and aspirations for freedom of the Vietnamese people to this day.
Entrance tickets
The admission ticket prices for Independence Palace are divided into three types to serve diverse customer needs:
Tickets for visiting the monument:
- Adults: 40,000 VND/person. Students: 20,000 VND/person. Children: 10,000 VND/person. Tickets for visiting the exhibition area “from Norodom Palace to Independence Palace”:
- Adults: 40,000 VND/person. Students: 40,000 VND/person. Children: 10,000 VND/person. Combo tickets for visiting the Palace and exhibition area:
- Adults: 65,000 VND/person. Students: 45,000 VND/person. Children: 15,000 VND/person. With affordable ticket options, visitors can choose their preferred experience when visiting Independence Palace.
Opening hours
Independence Palace is open to visitors every day of the week. The specific visiting hours are from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
If you want to purchase tickets for the visit, the ticket counter will be open from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm daily.
Exploring the inside of Independence Palace
Independence Palace has been divided into three separate areas to bring diversity and attraction to visitors, including the fixed area, the specialized area, and the supplementary area. Each zone has unique and extraordinary features, creating special highlights for the visitor’s exploration experience:
Fixed area
The fixed area in Independence Palace plays an important role as the workplace and activities of the ancient government. The rooms in the palace include the ceremonial hall, the banquet hall, the security council room, the president’s office, and government officials. In addition, the fixed area also includes bedrooms, activity areas, and entertainment areas, creating a lively and diverse space.
When stepping inside, visitors will directly witness vivid historical relics, providing a detailed view of life in the past. These discoveries will help visitors understand the harshness of war and the importance of peace in the nation’s history.
Specialized area
This is the specialized exhibition area in Independence Palace, where large exhibitions are organized. Here, visitors will admire vivid images that reproduce important periods in history.
Under the guidance and narration of tour guides, you will have the opportunity to explore many deep and unique historical details. This knowledge is often not widely published in books or other documents, creating a unique and rare experience for visitors.
Supplementary area
The supplementary area displayed in Independence Palace particularly preserves a large number of historically valuable photos. These photos have been sought and preserved to help future generations understand more about the past. They show the resilience and determination of our ancestors who fought and defeated the enemy for us to have the life we have today.
In addition to visiting the main areas, visitors can also explore the basement of Independence Palace or stroll in the outside grounds. This area includes lush green lawns. From here, visitors can admire the palace from every angle and explore the unique and harmonious architecture of Independence Palace.
What to note when visiting Independence Palace?
When visiting Independence Palace, please note the following regulations:
- Dress appropriately to respect the space of the historical monument.
- Follow the instructions on signs and from security personnel during the visit.
- Do not bring luggage inside the monument and do not bring food or drinks into the monument area.
- Do not bring animals into the visitation area.
- Prohibited items include weapons, toxic substances, and explosive materials into the monument area.
- The visiting area is extensive; you can purchase an Independence Palace map for easy navigation and exploration.
Independence Palace in Saigon is not only a prominent architectural work but also a symbol of national pride and the aspirations for peace of the Vietnamese people. It is an important historical monument, reminding us of the painful past and the desire for freedom. By preserving and displaying these historical artifacts, Independence Palace in Saigon directs us towards the importance of peace, freedom, and national unity.
