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Comprehensive restoration plan for Dien Hai Citadel

Translated by MAI DUNG • Oct 06, 2025 10:35

DNO - The second phase of the project to restore and embellish the Dien Hai Citadel relic aims to recreate the original space, offering locals and tourists a complete view of the over-200-year-old ancient citadel in the heart of Da Nang.

Perspective of the Dien Hai Citadel after restoration.

Located in Hai Chau Ward, the Dien Hai Citadel was recognized as a Special National Relic under Decision No. 2082/QD-TTg dated December 25, 2017 issued by the Prime Minister.

In September 2017, the People's Committee of Da Nang approved the first phase of the project.

Upon completion, the first phase cleared residential areas around the citadel; restored the northern, western and southern ramparts and moats; repaired existing structures; and built technical systems and buffer zones for the relic site.

In May 2022, the municipal government approved the second phase of the project, scheduled for implementation in late 2025.

In this phase, the inner citadel space will be systematically reconstructed on an area of 9,665m² with such items as citadel wall, eastern bridges and gates, southern bridges and gates, the statue of famous general Nguyen Tri Phuong, a flagpole, outdoor exhibition areas, trees, lawns and walkways.

An overall view of the Dien Hai Citadel following completion of the first phase of the project. Photo: XUAN SON

A highlight of the design proposal will be an underground exhibition house which will display documents, images, and artifacts related to the citadel’s history, along with advanced technologies such as 3D virtual reality experiences and immersive simulations.

In addition, a shrine will be built in the southwest corner of the citadel to commemorate soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives in the battles to preserve and protect the Dien Hai Citadel.

In the inner citadel, supporting items such as rest houses, technical areas, and internal walkways will be designed in harmony with the overall ancient architecture.

Currently, the Da Nang Museum, previously located within the citadel’s compound, has been relocated to 42 Bach Dang Street and officially reopened to the public in March 2025.

According to archival drawings from the 4^th year of Emperor Minh Mang’s reign, the Dien Hai Citadel originally had three gates - east, west, and south. The southern gate still retains its original position and structure.

In Phase 2, the eastern gate (facing the Han River) will be reconstructed based on historical records, remaining wall foundations, and comparative analysis with the southern gate’s architecture.

Consultants have proposed keeping the current eastern gate as the main entrance for its convenience in welcoming visitors and accommodating tourism activities.

Meanwhile, the western gate, which was sealed in 1859, will not be rebuilt in this phase; instead, its location will be marked with signage and explanatory boards, along with the construction of a new bridge to enhance site connectivity.

The project will include the reconstruction of the gun storage house. In the photo: A bronze cannon currently preserved by the Da Nang Museum. Photo: XUAN SON

All interior and exterior walls of the citadel will be cleaned, treated, and protected against environmental damage and degradation.

The statue of General Nguyen Tri Phuong, designed by sculptor Le Thi Kim Hang and inaugurated in 1986, will be renovated and integrated into a more spacious, solemn landscape.

The UH-1 helicopter captured by Vietnamese forces during the 1975 Spring General Offensive and Uprising at the Da Nang Airbase will be relocated, as it is not directly related to the Dien Hai Citadel. Photo: XUAN SON

The Dien Hai Citadel now stands within the central square area of downtown Da Nang. Photo: XUAN SON

Translated by MAI DUNG