Doesn’t the stoic grey granite facade of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum command respect? Here we stand in Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi. This is more than just a building. It’s a symbol. It embodies the deep gratitude of the Vietnamese people for their revered leader, Ho Chi Minh.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum serves as the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh. Construction began on September 2nd, 1973 and it was inaugurated on August 29th, 1975. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was inspired by Lenin’s Mausoleum in Moscow. It incorporates distinct Vietnamese architectural elements like its unique sloping roof.
But did you know that Ho Chi Minh actually wanted to be cremated? In his will, he wished for his ashes to be scattered across the hills of North, Central, and Southern Vietnam. He felt cremation was more hygienic. It would also save land for agricultural purposes. However, the government chose to honor the people’s wishes and preserve his body in a mausoleum.
Let’s take a closer look at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The exterior is clad in grey granite. The interior features grey, black, and red polished stone. The portico displays the inscription “Chủ tịch Hồ Chí Minh.” This means “President Ho Chi Minh.”
The structure itself is quite imposing. It stands 21.6 meters tall and 41.2 meters wide. Two platforms flank the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. They each have seven steps for parade viewing. The plaza in front is divided into 240 green squares separated by pathways. The gardens surrounding the mausoleum boast nearly 250 different plant and flower species. These originate from various regions of Vietnam.
Inside the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the embalmed body of President Ho Chi Minh rests in a cooled, central hall. A military honor guard protects this space. The body lies in a glass case under dim lights.
Above the entrance, you’ll see “President Ho Chi Minh” inscribed in dark red jade stone. The doors are crafted from precious wood from the Central Highlands. The front hall is adorned with pink-veined marble. In gold lettering are the words “Nothing is more precious than Independence and Freedom.”
Interestingly, the lawn in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum features 18,000 square meters of ginger grass. Two frangipani trees flank the main door. 79 cycad trees are planted around the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. These symbolize Ho Chi Minh’s 79 years of age. Bamboo groves stand to the south and north. Bamboo is a symbol of Vietnam.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. Remember to dress respectfully. Silence is essential inside. Photography is strictly prohibited.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is more than just a tomb. It represents Vietnam’s long struggle for independence. It embodies the deep respect and gratitude the Vietnamese people hold for their leader. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum offers a profound glimpse into Vietnam’s past. It reveals the enduring legacy of Ho Chi Minh. Take a moment to reflect on the history and significance of this place.