Thai Hoa Palace, one of the most significant structures within the Imperial City of Hue, has become the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam to receive the prestigious “LOTUS Green Building” certification. The recognition, awarded by the Vietnam Green Building Council (VGBC) in collaboration with the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre, marks a major milestone in integrating sustainability with heritage conservation.
An iconic symbol of power during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945), the Thai Hoa Palace holds immense architectural and cultural value. The recent certification not only celebrates this historical importance but also highlights Hue’s innovative efforts to restore the palace using environmentally conscious practices.
The restoration, from November 2021 to November 2024, has combined traditional craftsmanship with modern conservation techniques. The approach has focused on energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and preserving the palace’s original character. Key restoration work included the structural repair of wooden frameworks, the refurbishment of roofs, walls, and floors, and the meticulous restoration of gilded lacquer detailing that once defined the opulent interiors of the palace.
With a total budget of nearly 128 billion VND (around 4.9 million USD), the project aimed to restore the palace’s grandeur while aligning with green development goals. The successful implementation of sustainable methods has drawn positive attention, reinforcing that historic preservation and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand.
Originally constructed in 1805 under King Gia Long and later expanded by King Minh Mang in 1833, Thai Hoa Palace now stands as a model for heritage restoration in Vietnam. Its reopening has already begun to attract growing numbers of tourists, while the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre is actively encouraging visitors to play a role in preserving this iconic site for future generations.
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