During the National Day holidays on September 1 and 2, the 110-year-old heritage building housing the HCMC People’s Committee office will be open to the public for sightseeing excursions.
As part of an effort to enhance the city’s image as a welcoming and open destination, Dang Quoc Toan, Chief of Office for the People’s Committee, announced at a news conference on Thursday that the trip would become a regular feature, with sightseeing allowed on the last Saturday and Sunday of every month.
Previously, during the April 30th holiday, the headquarters of the People’s Council and People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City opened their doors for the first time, welcoming nearly 1,500 domestic and international tourists. To visit this famous architectural landmark, visitors need to register in advance.
Visitors are able to see certain parts of the building, such as the main hall, the international reception room on the ground and second floors, meeting room number 5, and the balcony. They will be provided with information about the building’s history, architectural highlights, artistic design, and functions.
This tour program is one of the activities aimed at building an open and friendly image of Ho Chi Minh City.
More about Saigon City Hall
Saigon City Hall, also known as Ho Chi Minh City Hall, is a prominent landmark located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It serves as the headquarters for the municipal government and is an important administrative center for the city.
The Saigon City Hall building is an architectural masterpiece that showcases a blend of French colonial and Vietnamese design elements. It was constructed during the French colonial period in the early 20th century and was originally called the Hotel de Ville. The building’s design features a neoclassical style with high columns, arched windows, and a clock tower. It is situated at the end of Nguyen Hue Boulevard, a famous pedestrian street in the city.
Saigon City Hall is not only a symbol of administrative authority but also a popular tourist attraction. The building’s exterior is particularly captivating, especially during the evening when it is illuminated with colorful lights. Visitors can stroll around the area, take photographs, and enjoy the historical significance of the site.
- Historical Significance: Saigon City Hall holds historical significance as it witnessed significant events in Vietnam’s history. During the French colonial era, it served as the seat of the French administration. After the end of French rule, it became the headquarters of the South Vietnamese government until the city’s fall during the Vietnam War.
- Architecture and Design: The building’s architecture reflects the French colonial influence on Vietnam’s urban landscape. Its neoclassical design features grandeur and elegance, with symmetrical facades, ornate details, and a central clock tower. The exterior is adorned with carvings, statues, and decorative elements, while the interior is known for its spacious halls, elegant staircases, and vintage furnishings.
- Nguyen Hue Boulevard: Saigon City Hall is located at the end of Nguyen Hue Boulevard, a popular pedestrian street in Ho Chi Minh City. The boulevard stretches from the Saigon River to the steps of City Hall, offering a vibrant atmosphere with shops, cafes, and street performances. It’s a great place for locals and tourists to gather and enjoy the city’s bustling energy.
- Landmark Status: Saigon City Hall is not only an important government building but also a recognized landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. Its iconic architecture and historical significance make it a popular destination for visitors seeking to explore the city’s heritage and take memorable photographs.
- Accessibility: Saigon City Hall is centrally located in District 1, the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It is easily accessible by various means of transportation, including taxis, buses, and motorbikes. The building is often included in city tours, and there are also nearby attractions such as the Saigon Opera House and the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.
It’s worth noting that the city’s name was officially changed from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City in 1976, following the reunification of Vietnam. However, both names are still commonly used, and many people still refer to the city as Saigon.
