Century-old French villa in central Vietnam faces uncertain future
A French colonial-era villa in Hue City, central Vietnam remains in a state of disrepair, three years after authorities considered relocating it to preserve the historic structure.
A French colonial-era villa is seen at 26 Le Loi Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City, central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
The villa, which once housed the Thua Thien-Hue Union of Literature and Arts Associations, is located at 26 Le Loi Street, one of Hue’s main streets along the Perfume River.
Built in the early 20th century, the villa features typical French colonial design blended with local architectural elements.
Local officials in 2022 explored moving the building to a nearby location to maintain its structure while freeing the site for tourism development.
A French colonial-era villa is seen at 26 Le Loi Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City, central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
Nguyen Van Cu, a specialist in relocating large historic buildings, was invited to survey the villa and develop a 14-step relocation plan with an estimated cost of VND2.5 billion (US$94,800).
More than three years later, the villa remains in place, with walls crumbling, damaged brick pillars, and an overgrown, littered courtyard.
The building’s condition has raised concerns about its structural integrity.
Peeling walls are seen at the French colonial-era villa located at 26 Le Loi Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City, central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
Tran Huu Thuy Giang, deputy chairman of the Hue City People’s Committee, said a technical assessment concluded the villa’s mixed brick, stone, and reinforced concrete structure has deteriorated to the point that moving it could compromise safety.
“We are considering alternative plans, including keeping the villa in its current location,” he said.
A damaged staircase is seen at the French colonial-era villa located at 26 Le Loi Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City, central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre
City authorities said a developer planning a five-star hotel at the site has requested the villa remain as part of the project, citing its architectural, cultural, and landscape value.
Nguyen Van Cu said he remains concerned about the villa’s preservation and is waiting for official instructions to proceed.
Bao Anh - Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre News
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