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

Abstract

This research examines the layout and architecture of the imperial mausoleums of the early Nguyen dynasty (1802-1848) in Hue City. The research focuses on three imperial mausoleums: those of Emperor Gia Long, Emperor Minh Mang, and Emperor Thieu Tri. These mausoleums were constructed between 1814 and 1820, 1840 and 1843, and in 1848, respectively. Previous studies have examined the historical and socio-cultural contexts, as well as traditional spiritual practices. However, comprehensive knowledge of the site layout and architectural composition remains limited, leaving gaps in the research. This research employs a methodology consisting of historical document investigation, site surveying, architectural inventory, clarification of terminologies related to mausoleum conceptions, and site plan analysis. The findings indicate that the Nguyen Dynasty’s mausoleums were typically built in the southwestern mountainous area of the Hue Citadel. The imperial mausoleums of Emperors Gia Long, Minh Mang, and Thieu Tri follow three, one, and two axial layouts, respectively. The mausoleums comprise three fundamental architectural components: the Tomb area (A), the Worship Temples area (B), and the Stele Hall area (C). These elements coexist and represent kingship, theocracy, and civil rights, respectively. The Tomb area (A), where the emperors’ remains are interred, is considered the most significant section and is consistently linked with the Stele Hall area (C). The Worship Temples area (B) serves as an intermediary entity and includes key architectural structures, such as the main temple, sub-temples, sub-houses, pavilions, and the main gate. The main temple, located at the center of the worship area, houses the votive tablets of the emperor and queen, where their souls are venerated. This study highlights how the emperors’ mausoleums convey messages from the past, clarifying the connotations of body, soul, and memory as expressed through the architectural entities A, B, and C. The study analyzes architectural terminologies and conceptions, mausoleum layouts and architecture, and architectural types and structures, which were not primarily addressed in previous studies.