An Bang Village also known locally as Hà Úc, is a unique village situated in Vinh An Commune, about 35 kilometers east of Hue City. Once a humble fishing village, An Bằng’s economy mainly relied on small boats for nearshore fishing. Life took a significant turn for its residents around 1990 when overseas Vietnamese were permitted to send money back home. This transformation laid the groundwork for An Bằng to become an extraordinary cultural and architectural marvel, now known as the “City of Ghosts.”
From Fishing Village to Opulent City of Tombs
With financial support largely from family members living abroad (mostly in the United States), the people of An Bằng began to improve their quality of life by building larger homes and purchasing luxury items. True to the Vietnamese saying, “Live in a good house, rest in a grand tomb,” these residents invested substantial sums in constructing elaborate, monumental tombs for their ancestors. As time passed, these tombs, some costing hundreds of millions to billions of Vietnamese dong, began filling the village’s cemetery, turning it into a lavish resting place unlike any other in Vietnam.
Highlights of An Bang’s “City of Ghosts”
The An Bằng cemetery spans approximately 40,000 square meters, stretching almost to the Vinh An Beach. Within its vast area, thousands of tombs—some covering as much as 400 square meters—rise with 7-to-8-meter-high gates. These structures feature an impressive array of colors and architectural styles, reminiscent of temples, palaces, and even Buddhist pagodas. Each tomb reflects an intricate design crafted from expensive materials, with elaborate ceramics and stone carvings. Many local families continually renovate or expand their ancestors’ tombs, making each structure increasingly grander.
One striking feature of these tombs is their influence on design. According to local artisans, most of the tombs are inspired by the renowned Khai Dinh Mausoleum, a symbol of the Nguyen Dynasty’s imperial architecture. Each tomb is then adapted with unique elements based on the family’s preferences, including vivid dragon sculptures and traditional floral motifs.
The Unique “Ceramic Mosaic” Art of Hue
The tombs in An Bằng showcase an intricate style of ceramic mosaic that is the signature of Hue. Floral and dragon motifs are meticulously inlaid with glazed tiles on the tam quan gates, as well as on stone steles, pillars, and walls. Many tombs feature massive pillars adorned with hand-carved dragons and detailed murals, some reaching heights of up to 10 meters. The result is a majestic display of artistry, where every centimeter is carefully crafted, making An Bằng’s cemetery one of the most breathtaking sights in Vietnam.
How to go to An Bang Cemetery
From Hue City (depending on your location – this map is an illusion with the keyword search ” Hue City- An Bang Cemetery City of Ghost) – An Duong Vuong Street – Nguyen Ta Thanh Street – TL02- Road 49B – Dong Tay Ha Uc
Visitors can easily reach An Bằng by taking National Route 49 from Hue City towards Thuan An Beach and following the coastal road for approximately 30 kilometers. One local tip is to look for the towering structures that stand higher than any residential home in the area; this will guide you straight to the entrance of the “City of Ghosts.”
Visitor Tips for An Bang Cemetery
- Respect the Space: An Bằng is a sacred cemetery with deep cultural significance. Visitors should maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor and avoid disruptive behavior while exploring the area.
- Photography Etiquette: While photographing these impressive structures is allowed, visitors are encouraged to be mindful of personal space and to ask permission before capturing images that may include locals or specific family tombs.
- Do not touch or damage any details on the tombs here.
- Plan for a Half-Day Visit: To truly appreciate An Bằng’s unique architecture and atmosphere, it’s best to set aside a few hours for exploration.
Get Day Trip Hue An Bang Village is made Hu Smile Travel
An Bang Cemetery offers visitors a rare glimpse into the interplay of wealth, faith, and family reverence in Vietnamese culture. A visit here is an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning and unique architecture in Vietnam, where tradition meets grandeur in this remarkable “City of Ghosts.”
