Publications
Analyzing the Floor Plan Design Methods of the Hue Imperial Palaces, Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), Vietnam
A groundbreaking analysis of the Hue Imperial Palaces' floor plan design methods, particularly focusing on the unique Twin-Ridge Beam Buildings (Twin Buildings), reveals the precise architectural principles and measurement units used during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945). This study, the first of its kind, re-determines the primary design methods by integrating historical documents, dimensional analysis, surveys of remaining structures, traditional design investigations, and expert interviews. The findings provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the proportions, parametric factors, and design processes behind these iconic buildings, offering critical guidance for accurate restoration and reconstruction efforts at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This research not only advances academic knowledge but also serves as an essential reference for conservation practices and architectural education.
Analyzing the Wooden Frame Design Methods of the Hue Imperial Palaces, Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), Vietnam
A groundbreaking analysis redefines the design methods of the Twin-Ridge Beam Buildings (Twin-Buildings) within the Hue Imperial Palaces. This study, leveraging historic Nguyen Dynasty documents, dimensional surveys, and interviews with master carpenters, reveals the intricate architectural proportions and construction techniques used exclusively for imperial residences, ancestral shrines, and mausoleum temples. The research provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the Twin-Buildings' design principles, offering valuable insights for academic education, scientific research, and heritage conservation efforts.
Gentrification in a World Heritage Site: The Strategy for Preserving the Hue Citadel in Vietnam
Gentrification in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Citadel of the Ho Dynasty, Hue, Vietnam, presents both opportunities and challenges for cultural preservation. The study identifies a state-led gentrification process comprising four stages—compensation, resettlement, displacement, and renovation—that aims to protect heritage while addressing urbanization pressures. While this approach enhances the city's urban façade, it also triggers social conflicts due to its complex nature and reliance on public consent. Qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews and document analysis, were employed to examine these dynamics. The research highlights the need for context-specific adaptations of Western gentrification concepts in Vietnam, emphasizing the balance between heritage preservation and community impact.
The Trieu Tuong Mausoleum Site: Results of the 2019 Excavation
A 2019 excavation at the Trieu Tuong Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancestral worship site of Vietnam's Nguyen royal family, uncovered significant relics and artifacts that enhance our understanding of the Nguyen Dynasty's history and culture. The study, conducted by Thanh Hoa Province's Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism in collaboration with the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology, aimed to conserve, embellish, and promote the mausoleum's historical value. Key findings include the burial site of Emperor Tinh (Nguyen Kim), contributing valuable insights into the dynasty's heritage. The research evaluates the outstanding archaeological and cultural significance of the discovered relics, offering a deeper perspective on Vietnam's royal lineage.
UNESCO Heritage Sites Growth in Vietnam from 1990 till 2015
Between 1990 and 2015, Vietnam's UNESCO World Heritage Sites expanded significantly, reflecting its rich cultural, natural, and historical significance. This study identifies key additions during this period and analyzes the criteria and processes that guided their inclusion. Notably, it highlights the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty as a prominent example of Vietnam's heritage preservation efforts. The research also provides recommendations for potential new sites, emphasizing the importance of balancing conservation with cultural promotion. By examining past developments, the study offers actionable insights for future heritage site nominations and sustainable management strategies.
A View of Champā Sites in Phú Yên Province, Vietnam: Toward a Longue Durée of Socio-Religious Context
Research reveals that the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty, located in Phú Yên province, Vietnam, was part of the historically understudied region of Kauṭhāra within the Champā polity. This area stands out as one of the longest-occupied Champā regions, yet it has received less archaeological attention compared to northern sites. The study integrates historical documents, maps, and archaeological evidence to contextualize the citadel's socio-religious significance within the broader Hindu–Buddhist traditions of Champā. A key insight is the potential for future research to focus on the Early Modern period, offering a deeper understanding of persistent settlement patterns over time. The findings underscore the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between historians and archaeologists to advance local and transregional studies in Asian cultural history.
Hue Museum with Analysis of Historical Values of Bronze Relics
Aesthetic and historical values of bronze relics from the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue are elevated through large-scale thematic presentations, revealing deep spiritual and human admiration. The study, conducted using observational, experiential, synthetic, historical, and dialectical methods, highlights the significance of Long a Palace—a key structure within the Bao Dinh Palace complex—as a central exhibit in the Hue Museum of Royal Antiquities. This research not only underscores the cultural heritage preserved at the Citadel of the Ho Dynasty but also offers educational insights for students, drawing attention to the enduring legacy of Vietnamese royal architecture and artistry.
Assessing the environmental impacts of informal settlements in vietnam: The case study of the hue citadel unesco world heritage site
Informal settlements, including those within UNESCO World Heritage Sites, pose significant environmental risks due to inadequate infrastructure and lack of access to clean water, waste management, or sanitation. A study focusing on the Hue Citadel, a 19th-century fortress in Vietnam, demonstrates that such settlements can have detrimental impacts on both the site's integrity and the surrounding environment. The research suggests that while formal Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) typically focus on large-scale projects, they could be adapted to rapidly assess grassroots issues like informal settlements. This adaptive approach, combined with socio-economic surveys and scientific literature, proposes that an environmental improvement plan might allow residents to remain in areas rich in social and cultural capital, provided their living conditions are addressed. The study highlights the potential for balancing heritage conservation with community needs through targeted interventions.
Described, Inscribed, Written Off: Heritagisation as (Dis)connection
Heritagisation of the Citadel of the Hồ Dynasty, inscribed by UNESCO in 2011, has exacerbated tensions between conservation efforts and local livelihoods. The study reveals a complex conflict involving district authorities, heritage management agencies, and local residents, highlighting how conservation regulations clash with existing land-use practices. While UNESCO's inscription aims to protect the site, it imposes restrictions that disrupt local lives without adequate enforcement or compensation mechanisms. The research exposes power struggles between government agencies, underscoring the challenges of balancing heritage preservation with social equity in post-socialist Vietnam.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Citadel of the Ho Dynasty