Ho Chi Minh City Hall: A Parisian Masterpiece in Saigon
The People’s Committee Building instantly captures attention. Originally called the Hôtel de Ville de Saigon, it represents a stunning French colonial architectural masterpiece. French architect Paul Gardès completed the building in 1908. Significantly, Gardès drew inspiration from Northern France’s elegant town halls and bell towers. The pale yellow-and-white facade, symmetrical design, ornate clock tower, and intricate sculptures make it unique. As a result, it remains one of the most photographed landmarks in Vietnam. It truly resembles a grand palace at the end of the city’s most modern boulevard.
History and Symbolism: From Colonial Center to HCMC Headquarters
The building silently witnessed Vietnam’s dramatic historical transitions. For decades, it served as the administrative heart of French Saigon. Following the reunification of Vietnam in 1975, officials renamed it the People’s Committee Building. This name change signified the transfer of power and the birth of a new Vietnamese government. Today, the building functions as the headquarters for the city’s People’s Council and People’s Committee. In the beautifully manicured gardens immediately in front, a prominent statue of Ho Chi Minh stands, greeting a child. Furthermore, this statue perfectly symbolizes the city’s new identity and the nation’s focus on future generations.
How to Experience This Must-See Landmark
Please note that the building remains an active government office. Therefore, it is not open to the public for interior tours. Nonetheless, visitors find the exterior experience a highlight of any HCMC visit.
Best Photo Spot: View the building from the opposite end of the vast Nguyễn Huệ Pedestrian Street. This boulevard provides a grand, unblocked viewing platform. Consequently, it is perfect for capturing great photos, especially at dusk.
Nighttime View: At night, expert lighting dramatically illuminates the building. This transforms the French Renaissance facade into a dazzling focal point. In fact, it dominates the cityscape and perfectly caps a night stroll.
Central Location: The building anchors central District 1. Thus, visitors can walk a short distance to the Saigon Opera House, the Rex Hotel, and major shopping centers. It serves as an essential anchor point for any sightseeing tour.
Additional Information
Address: 86 Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
Official Website: https://hochiminhcity.gov.vn/
