What is the Hue Flag Tower?
The Hue Flag Tower (Cột Cờ Huế) is a massive flagpole structure originally built during the Nguyen Dynasty as part of the imperial citadel’s southern defenses. Standing on a three-tiered stone platform, it once functioned as a military signal tower, used to raise flags and communicate strategic messages throughout the royal city.
Located just outside the southern wall of the Hue Citadel, the tower is perfectly aligned with the Ngo Mon Gate and the central axis of the Imperial City. Beyond its practical role, the flag tower was also a powerful visual symbol — flying the emperor’s banner in the past, and today the national flag of Vietnam. It represents both Hue’s royal heritage and the enduring pride of the Vietnamese people.
Historical of Hue Flag Tower
Construction under Gia Long
The Hue Flag Tower was first constructed in 1807 under Emperor Gia Long, founder of the Nguyen Dynasty. As the dynasty established its capital in Hue, the tower was built as a key feature of the Citadel’s southern defenses, directly in front of what would become the Ngo Mon Gate. From the beginning, it was designed to serve both military and ceremonial purposes, raising royal banners high above the walled city for all to see.
Modifications under Minh Mang
In 1829, Emperor Minh Mang — known for formalizing court rituals and strengthening imperial authority — ordered the expansion and reinforcement of the flag tower. The base was made more prominent and durable, and the pole extended higher to match the increased significance of court ceremonies. The flag tower became a central part of military drills, public events, and royal rituals, often serving as the visual centerpiece during national celebrations.
Role during conflicts
Over time, the Hue Flag Tower became a silent witness to some of Vietnam’s most turbulent moments. It was used for military signaling during the colonial period and stood through multiple conflicts. During the 1968 Tet Offensive, the structure was badly damaged as fierce fighting engulfed Hue, especially around the Citadel.
After the war, the tower was carefully restored as part of broader efforts to preserve Hue’s imperial heritage. Today, it flies the Vietnamese national flag, continuing its role as a symbol — not of war or empire, but of identity and resilience.
Architecture and design
The Hue Flag Tower stands on a three-tiered stone base, giving it both height and visual dominance over the southern end of the Citadel. Each level was built with brick and stone, forming a sloped, fortress-like structure that also served a defensive function in the overall citadel design.
The total height of the tower is approximately 37 meters, including the flagpole. At the top flies a large Vietnamese flag, visible from across Hue — a tradition that began with imperial banners under the Nguyen emperors.
The tower is perfectly aligned with the main imperial axis, which runs straight through Ngo Mon Gate and into the Thai Hoa Palace at the center of the Imperial City. This placement wasn’t just aesthetic — it reflected Confucian principles of order, authority, and ceremonial balance in imperial urban planning.
Symbolic importance
From the time it was built, the Hue Flag Tower served as a visible symbol of power. Under the Nguyen Dynasty, it flew imperial banners that signaled royal authority and the presence of the emperor within the Citadel. More than just a military feature, the tower projected control, unity, and the central role of the monarchy in Vietnamese society.
In 1968, during the Tet Offensive, the Viet Cong flag was raised over the tower and flew for 25 days, marking a striking moment in the Vietnam War. Its presence at such a symbolic site made international headlines and highlighted the intensity of the fighting in Hue.
Today, the tower proudly flies the national flag of Vietnam. Seen from all around the city, it continues to represent resilience, historical legacy, and national pride — connecting imperial heritage with modern identity.
Visiting the Hue Flag Tower
What to Expect
The Hue Flag Tower is fully visible from outside the Citadel walls, so you don’t need a ticket to see it up close. It stands in an open square just off Le Duan Street, right in front of Ngo Mon Gate. You can visit any time of day, and it’s especially striking when lit up at night. There’s no official entrance to the base, but you can walk freely around the tower and moat.
Best photo spots
- Le Duan Street: Stand across the street and face north for a clear, symmetrical shot of the tower with the flag flying high above the Citadel wall.
- The moat: Early morning and late afternoon offer great light and calm water for reflection photos.
- Ngo Mon Gate: From within the square or near the Flag Tower, frame the gate in the background to show the tower’s place in the ceremonial layout of the Imperial City.
Nearby highlights to combine
The Hue Flag Tower is surrounded by some of the most important historical sites in the city — all within easy walking distance.
- Ngo Mon Gate – Just behind the flag tower stands this imposing main gate to the Imperial City. Once reserved for royal processions, it’s now the grand entry point for visitors exploring the ancient capital.
- Hue Imperial City – Step through the gate and into a vast complex of throne halls, ancestral temples, royal pavilions, and the remains of the Forbidden Purple City. This was the heart of Nguyen Dynasty power.
- Nine Holy Cannons – Positioned near the tower, these massive bronze cannons were cast in the early 1800s and are seen as symbolic guardians of the Citadel. They’re impressive works of metallurgy and tied closely to Vietnam’s military heritage.
