1. General introduction to Hai Phong City Theater
Located in the central square, Hai Phong City Theater becomes an architectural intersection point between French, Chinese, and Vietnamese residential areas from the early 20th century. This place is not only a space for important political and economic activities but is also considered the heart of culture, a place that preserves the memories of generations of city residents.
Hai Phong City Theater is 125 years old with historical and cultural values associated with the port land. (Source: Collection)
Began construction in 1898, Hai Phong City Theater was completed at the end of 1900, marking an important historical milestone. According to research works by Claude Bourrin and Pham Tue, this work has undergone many changes over time for more than a century. By 2025, when the Hai Phong City Theater reaches its 125th anniversary, the historical value and role of this work continue to be affirmed, as a valuable symbol reflecting the city's journey of development, protection, and integration.
Hai Phong City Theater is recognized as a City-level Historical Relic of Resistance from 2005 and a National Relic from 2015. More than just an architectural work, this place is also a symbol of culture and art, demonstrating the indomitable spirit of the people of Hai Phong.
2. Unique Architecture of Hai Phong City Theater
2.1. French Neoclassical Style and Aesthetic Value
Inspired by European works of the 17th and 18th centuries, Hai Phong City Theater was built in the Baroque style combined with Neoclassical, harmoniously blending graceful lines with a grand structure. Notably, all materials and blueprints were brought from France, and the construction process was directly carried out by Vietnamese people under the strict supervision of French architects.
Outstanding architecture of Hai Phong Grand Theatre bears a strong European-Asian style. (Source: Collected)
The front facade of the Hai Phong City Theatre impresses with its exquisite symmetrical design, highlighted by large columns close to the wall and a sturdy dome. The classic European architectural style is clearly expressed through soft decorative details, such as the lyre shape on the main door, winding balcony railings, and intricate embossed patterns. The building consists of three floors, four large halls, and many separate functional rooms, creating an overall appearance that is both grand and elegant.
2.2. Interior and conservation efforts through the periods
Entering the interior space of the Hai Phong City Theatre, one can clearly feel the European style reflected in the horseshoe-shaped auditorium and the mezzanine once reserved for the elite. The stage is designed modernly to Western standards, combined with an exquisite carved wooden door system and brilliant crystal chandeliers, contributing to an impressive artistic space.
Despite undergoing several restorations, the original value of the French architecture at the Hai Phong City Theatre is still respected and preserved. The restoration of patterns, the use of traditional plastering techniques, maintaining the characteristic paint color, and reassembling details such as wooden floors and cast iron railings have helped maintain the standard beauty of the building from the previous century.
2.3. Theatre Square connecting the community
The square in front of the Hai Phong City Theatre is a center connecting major cultural spaces, located close to many key projects and historical sites, forming the city's characteristic festival axis. This square frequently hosts a variety of activities such as art festivals, sports events, outdoor performances, and cultural fairs.
Special occasions like New Year's Eve countdowns or major events take place here, turning the square into a familiar gathering place for locals as well as an attractive destination for tourists. It is also an ideal place for photo opportunities and exploring a vibrant, close-knit cultural environment.
3. Outstanding historical and cultural role of Hai Phong City Theatre
3.1. Significant historical milestones
Spanning the history of national struggle, the Hai Phong City Theatre has marked many important events. During the August Revolution in 1945, the theatre became the venue for announcing the new revolutionary government, marking a major turning point for Hai Phong in its journey to independence.
Hai Phong Grand Theatre (Nha hat lon Hai Phong) marks many important events. (Source: Collected)
In 1955, this place continued to be the center of a large rally celebrating the city's liberation, attracting a large number of people. Notably, the event of defending the city on November 20, 1946, with the tenacious fight of 13 Ve Quoc Doan soldiers and the cultural propaganda team, left an indelible mark on the hearts of Hai Phong people, engraving the resilient spirit of this land.
3.2. Center of art and politics of the city
With a history of over 100 years, the city theatre (nha hat thanh pho) maintains its role as the largest art center in the city. It regularly hosts plays, concerts, and art festivals, serving a large audience. At the same time, it is also the venue for many national-level conferences, major events, and important city programs.
This role has contributed to making the Hai Phong city theatre (nha hat thanh pho Hai Phong) a cultural symbol, a place connecting tradition and modernity. Each event here holds great significance in elevating spiritual life, fostering pride, and strengthening community.
3.3. Community value in the life of Hai Phong people
The square in front of the Hai Phong city theatre (nha hat thanh pho Hai Phong) has been closely associated with the life of the port city community through generations. It is always the venue for New Year's Eve celebrations, major festivals, or outdoor art programs, preserving childhood memories and fostering community bonds.
This iconic space is both a place for recreation and entertainment, and a meeting point that expresses solidarity and national pride. Hai Phong people always turn to the city theatre (nha hat thanh pho) on special occasions, sharing and bonding through the city's common events.
4. Hai Phong City Theatre attracts tourists
4.1. Reasons why the theatre attracts domestic and international tourists
The architectural value and historical depth have helped the Hai Phong city theatre (nha hat thanh pho Hai Phong) become an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. The luxurious art space, unique French-style photo opportunities in the heart of the port city, offer special experiences. This is not only a place to admire the architecture but also an opportunity to feel the heroic historical periods of the city.
Through the blend of modern festivals and traditional art, the theatre offers an experience of a vibrant cultural space, reflecting the intersection of East and West. This is why this destination attracts architecture lovers as well as those who want to learn about Vietnamese history and culture.
4.2. Suggested experiences at the theatre and surrounding areas
When visiting the Hai Phong city theatre (nha hat thanh pho Hai Phong), tourists can visit and capture memorable moments at prominent architectural sites, as well as attend characteristic art performances. Participating in festivals and outdoor events in the square also enriches the experience.
The area adjacent to the theatre (nha hat) features old streets with European-style cafes, creating a romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Tourists can also combine visits to attractions such as the Hai Phong Museum (Bao tang Hai Phong), the Bandstand (Nha Ken), or the Central Flower Garden (Quan hoa trung tam), an attractive journey to enjoy the unique culture, cuisine, and architecture of the port city.
4.3. Itinerary combining Hai Phong City Theatre and Sun World Cat Ba
An ideal itinerary begins with the first day exploring the Hai Phong city theatre (nha hat thanh pho Hai Phong), capturing beautiful moments at the square, enjoying coffee in the old quarter along with famous local specialties. On the next day, tourists can experience the Sun World Cat Ba cable car to admire the island's scenery from above. The cable car journey takes less than 1510 minutes, providing a safe and convenient trip for tourists.
Hai Phong Grand Opera House combines exploration of Lan Ha Bay by Sun World Cat Ba cable car from above. (Source: Collected)
This two-day itinerary will help you fully experience the harmony between cultural historical heritage and the characteristic nature of the port city. From the ancient beauty of opera house to the majestic island and sea space on the Sun World Cat Ba cable car journey, each stop leaves many unforgettable memories.
5. Expert and media reviews on the value of Hai Phong city's opera house
Architectural experts and the media all recognize Hai Phong Opera House as a unique historical and architectural heritage, rich in artistic, political, and spiritual value, closely associated with the local community. This structure is a testament to the process of cultural exchange and the ability to preserve ancient values through generations.
Hai Phong City Grand Theatre is one of the three theatres with outstanding French architecture. (Source: Collected)
Alongside Hanoi Opera House and Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, Hai Phong City Theatre is part of the trio of theatres with the most outstanding French architecture in the country. If Hanoi Opera House has a larger scale and a later construction mark, Ho Chi Minh City Opera House stands out with Baroque art, then the theatre has a long history of preserving its original values, while reflecting the deep connection with the resistance history and the lives of the city's people.
6. Experience and notes for visiting the theatre
The ideal time to explore Hai Phong City Theatre is autumn and festival occasions, especially during major events such as May 13th, New Year's Day, or large-scale music performances. The theatre is open during administrative hours and during event occasions, offering convenience for visitors to explore and experience.
Experience exploring and enjoying Hai Phong Opera House. (Source: Collected)
Visitors to Hai Phong Opera House should choose appropriate, elegant attire that shows respect for the heritage space. When taking photos, it is necessary to comply with general regulations, avoid sitting or lying on the steps, do not bring food or drinks inside, and pay attention to preserving and protecting the valuable architecture of the building.
Hai Phong Opera House offers many ideal photo spots, notably the marble-tiled lobby, the grand arched staircase, and the large gate with columns in classic European style. As night falls, the second-floor balcony becomes romantic with soft lighting, while the flower square in front and classic decorative details create a perfect backdrop for artistic shots in the heart of the city.
Hai Phong City Opera House is a unique cultural, architectural, and historical heritage of the Port City. This structure plays an important role in spiritual life, fostering pride for the community, and is an attractive destination for tourists, especially as 2025 marks the heritage's 125th anniversary. A journey to explore this place is an opportunity to feel the beauty, spirit, and romance of Hai Phong through a golden imprint of Vietnamese cultural history.
