Meridian Gate (Huế)

Constructed in 1833 in the traditional Vietnamese Nguyen style under the rule of emperor Minh Mạng, it was used by the sovereign as an observation point for troop movements and ceremonies.

Like the original in Beijing, the Meridian Gate in Huế is composed of a main, central section and two protruding wings, representing que towers, traditional towers marking the entrance of palaces, temples and tombs.

The two, slightly smaller, side entrances were reserved for mandarins, soldiers and horses.

From the main hall, the emperor would watch troop movements and his subjects bringing homage.

Media related to Meridian Gate (Citadel of Huế) at Wikimedia Commons