Ho Chi Minh City Museum

Built between 1885 and 1890 in the gothique architectural style with an Asian roof, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum building, formerly the Cochinchina Governor’s Palace, the Supreme Court, and frequently called Gia Long Palace because it is situated on the same street, was created by French architect Alfred Foulhoux.

The building’s overall shape and the façade’s mix of huge and tiny pillars, which block the sides of the entry in two rows, are reminiscent of the famed Louvre Paris, which was built in 1670 under the reign of Emperor Louis XIV. Unfortunately, in 1943, an awning was built over this gate.

The bust in the center of the triangle-shaped façade represents the French Republic with a somber expression and a scowling mask (possibly that of a jellyfish), as well as tenderness with carvings on each side that represent the charming world, such as yang branches, corolla shapes, leaves surrounded by snakes, chickens and owls (day and night) at the corners of the façade, and an aura ring behind the bust’s head that resembles

The other carved scenes are fairly numerous and fit the multi-tone architectural elements of the building. The pillars of the façade are highlighted with geometric drawings (plates) of animals and plants.

Given that the building’s original use was as a museum of commerce, a young face with bird’s wing-shaped hair and wearing jade strings gives the large pillars an elaborate appearance akin to the ancient Persian god of commerce Hermès-Mercure. We can also see the expression of the God and the bow of the boat adorning the head of the west-south pillar of the palace.

Tall lizards and birds that are curling or widening their wings represent the creatures and plants of a dichotomous environment in the carvings on the western-style ceiling that run along the floor. The magnificence that reminds us of the Southern Swamp setting is not diminished by the fictitious illustrations.

The Ho Chi Minh City Museum, which features stunning sculptural themes and French Neoclassical architecture, is a wonderful location for photographers. This museum not only draws tourists with its styles, but it also exhibits numerous priceless objects and provides fascinating information. With nine galleries, each room will transport you to a specific era in history and aid with your understanding of how Ho Chi Minh City evolved.