Quang Trung Museum stands as a special national relic, marking the historic birthplace of Nguyễn Huệ (Emperor Quang Trung) and his two brothers, Nguyễn Nhạc and Nguyễn Lữ, collectively known as the Tây Sơn Tam Kiệt (Tây Sơn Three Heroes). This expansive complex offers a compelling journey through one of the most heroic chapters in Vietnamese history—the Tây Sơn Uprising of the late 18th century.
Historical Significance and Relics
The museum was built on the original foundation of the Tây Sơn brothers’ family home, giving visitors a direct connection to the past.
Tây Sơn Tam Kiệt Temple: This temple honors the three brothers and their loyal generals, allowing visitors to pay their respects to the national heroes.
Original Relics: Visitors can still see several original relics, including an ancient family well (Giếng Nước Đá Ong), which locals say never runs dry, and a venerable 200-year-old tamarind tree (Cây Me Cổ Thụ) that provides shade near the temple grounds.
Exhibition Halls: The main exhibition building houses over 11,000 artifacts and documents, showcasing the rise of the Tây Sơn movement, the significant military strategies of Nguyễn Huệ, and his monumental victory over the Qing invaders in 1789. These exhibits detail the military genius and patriotic spirit that defined the era.
Cultural Performances and Art
The museum is not merely a collection of static displays; it actively keeps the Tây Sơn spirit alive through cultural performances.
Tây Sơn Martial Arts (Võ Tây Sơn): Skilled practitioners regularly demonstrate the traditional martial arts, or Võ, which were crucial to the Tây Sơn army’s success. This provides an exciting and vivid cultural experience.
Battle Drum Music (Nhạc Võ Tây Sơn): Visitors witness the powerful and distinctive battle drum performances, known for using twelve drums symbolizing the twelve zodiac animals. The music vividly recreates the atmosphere of the Tây Sơn army marching into battle. The performance requires a separate service fee, typically around 400,000 VNĐ per show for small groups, or a per-person rate for larger groups/package tours. Confirm performance times upon arrival.
Visitor Information and Practical Details
The museum is easily accessible and forms a key part of the region’s historical tour circuit.
Opening Hours: The museum is generally open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Entrance Fee: The basic entrance ticket costs 50,000 VNĐ per adult (includes a mandatory insurance fee). Discounts apply for children (6 to under 15 years old), students, and the elderly (25,500 VNĐ), while children under 6 and people with disabilities enter for free.
Getting There: The museum is located approximately one hour’s drive from Quy Nhơn City, often via National Highway 19. Travelers typically use taxi, rented car, or join a pre-booked tour to reach the site.
