Hoang A Tuong Residence
Location: In the centre of Bac Ha Town, Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province.
Characteristics: This is a unique architectural work, which has the combination of Asian and European styles.
(TITC) - The residence was owned by Hoang Yen Chao and his son Hoang A Tuong – the Tay ethnic people who ruled a region with 70% of the population are Mong ethnic people.
◊ Architecture
Built in 1914 and completed in 1921, Hoang A Tuong Residence surrounded by solid wall has a total area of 4,000m², comprising 36 rooms. The residence was the home and work of Hoang Family and also had function as a fortress.
The architecture of Hoang A Tuong Residence has the combination of Asian and European styles, the highlight of which is French architectural feature such as laurel motif patterns covered on doors, vaulted doors, curved staircases, tiled corridors with rail, etc.
After going through the large yard, visitors arrive in the main house where used to be meeting venue. The house has a total area of 420m², including two storeys. The outside of the house is decorated with elaborate patterns. Beside the main house are auxiliary houses used for Hoang Yen Chao and Hoang A Tuong’s wives, servants, and storehouse before. In addition, Hoang A Tuong Residence also has shelters and exits.
◊ Activities for visitors
At present, the residence has a room range for displaying souvenirs and art works on the life of highland people, traditional costumes of Dao and Mong ethnic groups, etc. A model of cooking traditional corn wine of Bac Ha people is put behind the main house so that visitors can learn about process of making Bac Ha corn wine and enjoy it. In addition, local handicraft products such as brocade towel, dress, tobacco pipe, silver ring, etc are also sold here to serve visitors.
Through nearly 100 years, Hoang A Tuong Residence still stands majestically amid the highland town. The residence has been preserved and embellished so that visitors can learn about Bac Ha’s history in the past.
