Tiger Arena Hue, known as an ancient martial arts arena, is a nationally recognized heritage site located in Truong Da Village, Thuy Bieu Ward, approximately 5km west of the former imperial capital of Hue.
When visiting Hue, don’t forget to explore “Vietnam’s Roman Colosseum” – Tiger Arena. This is the place where deadly battles between elephants and tigers took place for the public’sentertainment. These fights served as both a form of entertainment and a way for the royal court to train their soldiers. Today, Tiger Arena is a historical monument that attracts a large number of visitors.
The History of Tiger Arena in Hue
Before the construction of Tiger Arena, the deadly battles between elephants and tigers during the Nguyen dynasty were held on Da Vien Island in the Perfume River. During this period, there were many dangerous incidents related to the fights.
In 1750, Lord Nguyen Phuc Khoat witnessed a bloody battle where 40 elephants slaughtered 18 tigers. Particularly, a tiger knocked down the overseer, and then he was trampled to death by his own trained elephant.
During the reign of King Minh Mang, while the king was watching the combat on the Perfume River, a tiger swam towards the dragon boat, but fortunately, the royal guards intervened in time.
Therefore, in the 11th year of Minh Mang’s reign, specifically in 1830, the king ordered the construction of a solid arena in the area of Truong Da Village, Nguyet Bieu Commune, located to the west of the imperial citadel.
Best time to visit Hue, Vietnam
The Architecture of Tiger Arena Hue
Tiger Arena Hue is constructed in the shape of a crescent moon with two concentric walls. The inner wall has a height of 5.9m, while the outer wall is 4.75m high, inclined at a 15-degree angle to provide stability. The circumference of the outer wall is 145m, and the diameter of the central arena is 44m. Tiger Arena is built using bricks, lime mortar, and stone.
The grandstands are divided into two sections, one for the king and officials, and the other for the general public and soldiers. The area for the king is located in the north and is built higher than the other sections.
On the left side, there are 24 steps reserved for the royal family and high-ranking officials, while the right side is designated for lower-ranking officials and soldiers.
Opposite the grandstands is a system of five tiger cages with wooden doors that can be opened and closed by pulling ropes from above. On the city walls, there is a gate measuring 3,52m in height and 1.8m in width, which is used to bring elephants into the arena.
Tiger Arena is considered a unique architectural masterpiece of Vietnam and the world, attracting tourists as a fascinating tourist destination in Hue.
The Deadly Battles between Elephants and Tigers
The Protocol of Organizing the Battles between Elephants and Tigers at Tiger Arena is highly ceremonial. Surrounding the arena, there are decorative flags and banners. Soldiers armed with bows and arrows stand on both sides of the path, with flower carpets laid out to welcome the king.
At noon, the king and his entourage will arrive on a dragon boat. As the boat approaches the riverbank, the king disembarks and proceeds under a canopy adorned with four golden poles and four yellow curtains.
Leading the procession will be the royal guards, followed by the flag bearers carrying the Triple Talent flag, the Five Elements flag, and the Twenty-Eight Constellations flag.
The procession also includes soldiers with long swords and, finally, the palace orchestra. The deadly combat at Tiger Arena takes place annually and concludes when the elephant overpowers and kills the tiger.
Tiger Arena Heritage – Unique Cultural and Historical Tourist Attraction
With its cultural, architectural, and historical significance, the People’s Committee of Hue City, in collaboration with the Hue Imperial City Heritage Conservation Center, has conducted research and used modern technology to recreate the image of Tiger Arena. Additionally, they have planned for the restoration of various components to better serve tourists.
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Tourist Destinations near Tiger Arena in Hue
Voi Re Palace
Voi Re Palace is a historical site associated with the elephant corps during the Nguyen dynasty. This architectural structure was used to worship and pay tribute to the elephants, particularly during the spring and autumn seasons each year. Voi Re Palace is built in a “gate” style, with 17 steps leading up to the front gate.
Hue Imperial Citadel
Hue Imperial Citadel is located 4km away from Tiger Arena. It is one of the most important architectural complexes of the Nguyen dynasty, preserving unique and impressive structures that evoke memories of the powerful feudal era in Vietnam.
Thuy Bieu Ecotourism Area
Thuy Bieu Ecotourism Area is approximately 3km away from Tiger Arena and is a destination for nature lovers. When visiting this peaceful village in the heart of Hue city, you can immerse yourself in the serene and simple scenery, relax by the medicinal herb water, cook your own food, and indulge in the specialties of the ancient capital.
Dong Khanh Tomb
Dong Khanh Tomb is about 4km away from Tiger Arena and is one of the famous tombs in Hue. The architectural structure underwent construction, renovation, and expansion over a span of 35 years, starting from the reign of King Dong Khanh, Thanh Thai, Duy Tan, and finally completed during the reign of King Khai Dinh. Dong Khanh Tomb combines traditional artistic values with Western influences, creating a unique and harmonious blend.
Tiger Arena is part of the Hue Citadel Complex, which was recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1993. With its unique architecture and rich historical value, Tiger Arena is considered unparalleled and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Due to its captivating appeal, Tiger Arena is increasingly attracting both domestic and international tourists. Therefore, do not miss out on this fascinating destination when you have the
opportunity to visit this remarkable land!
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