Minh Mang's Tomb

Minh Mang’s Tomb, also known as Hieu Tomb, is the final resting place of the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. Located about 12 kilometers from the center of Hue, the tomb sits on Cam Khe Mountain, where two rivers converge to form the Perfume River. Construction began in 1840 and was completed in 1843 under Emperor Thieu Tri. It stands today as one of the most grand and solemn royal mausoleums in the former imperial capital.

The tomb complex consists of 40 large and small structures, symmetrically arranged along a central axis and harmoniously integrated with the surrounding nature. Its layout resembles a person lying at rest amid serene hills and lakes. Key highlights like the Tring Minh Lake, Sung An Temple, and Minh Lau Pavilion contribute to its majestic yet poetic beauty, reflecting deep Eastern philosophy.

Beyond its impressive scale, Minh Mang’s Tomb is also known for its exceptional artistic value. Nearly 600 carved poetic inscriptions on stone and wood across major structures form a unique "poetry museum" of 19th-century Vietnamese literature. Today, visitors can reach the site by road or river, enjoying both the architectural grandeur and the tranquil beauty of the Perfume River and Hue’s countryside.