The Nine Dynastic Urns, located at The Mieu Temple in Hue’s Imperial City, are an incredible testament to the Nguyen Dynasty’s historical grandeur. Commissioned by Emperor Minh Mang in the 19th century, these urns embody the dynasty’s enduring legacy and aspirations for national prosperity.
Overview of The Nine Dynastic Urns
The Nine Dynastic Urns were crafted from 1835 to 1837, with the inauguration ceremony led by Emperor Minh Mạng on March 4th, 1837. These urns symbolize the eternal reign of the Nguyen Dynasty, each bearing a posthumous title of a Nguyen emperor. Notably, the urns are named after the emperors: Cao urn (Emperor Gia Long), Nhan urn (Emperor Minh Mạng), Chuong urn (Emperor Thiệu Trị), Anh urn (Emperor Tự Đức), Nghi urn (Emperor Kiến Phúc), and Tuyen urn (Emperor Khải Định). The Du urn and Huyen urn, however, do not represent any emperor, as they were created after the Nguyen Dynasty had ended with the August Revolution.
Standing in front of the Hiển Lâm Pavilion, the urns are strategically placed in a row on large stones, reflecting the altar arrangement in Thế Miếu Temple. The Cao urn is prominently placed 3 meters ahead of the others to honor Emperor Gia Long, the first emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Each urn boasts remarkable craftsmanship, especially in copper casting, with intricate embossed patterns depicting various Vietnamese landscapes and cultural elements, such as mountains, rivers, birds, flowers, fruits, and weapons. The urns also feature 153 carved designs, showcasing the artistic mastery of 19th-century Vietnamese artisans.
Ranging in height from 2.3 meters to 2.5 meters, the urns vary in weight, with the heaviest weighing 2061kg and the lightest 1935kg. Despite their size, the urns’ legs and upper handles are all uniquely designed, emphasizing the individuality of each piece.
The Nine Dynastic Urns are not only a remarkable feat of craftsmanship but also an invaluable cultural heritage, representing the history, artistry, and prosperity of the Nguyen Dynasty and Hue itself. A visit to Hue would be incomplete without experiencing the awe-inspiring presence of these urns.
How to get to The Nine Dynastic Urns
Address: Le Huan street, Phu Hau ward, Hue city
