The Architecture of Imperial Mausoleums: Case Studies from the Early Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1848), Vietnam

Imperial mausoleums of the early Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1848) in Hue, Vietnam, reveal a structured architectural symbolism where three key components—Tomb area (A), Worship Temples area (B), and Stele Hall area (C)—embody kingship, theocracy, and civil rights. Unlike previous studies that focused on historical or cultural contexts, this research deciphers their spatial and compositional layouts through document analysis, site surveys, and architectural inventory, identifying distinct axial arrangements for Emperors Gia Long, Minh Mang, and Thieu Tri's mausoleums. The findings clarify how these structures convey messages of memory, soul, and body, bridging gaps in understanding the dynasty’s funerary architecture.

Ngoc Vo, H., Vinh Le, A., & Chaturawong, C. (2025). The Architecture of Imperial Mausoleums: Case Studies from the Early Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1848), Vietnam. NAJUA: History of Architecture and Thai Architecture, 37–90. https://doi.org/10.69598/najuahata.22.1.276595