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During the era of 1802-1945, Vietnam was ruled by the Nguyen Dynasty. This was Vietnam's last ruling Royal family. There were in all 13 kings in different times. As a mark of tradition the rulers built tombs of their own name around the palace. These tombs are famously known as the Royal Tombs of Hue. Though there were 13 rulers but only seven tombs are found in the site. Due to various only seven of the rulers had tombs built after their name. These tombs form the architectural wonder of Hue and definitely a reason to visit the place. The seven imperial tombs of Hue are built on a hilly region on the southwestern front of the Citadel, another famous monument of Hue. The kings having their presence in the form of the tombs are Gia Long, Minh Mang, Thieu Tri, Tu Duc, Duc Duc, Dong Khanh and Khai Dinh. These tombs were constructed during their respective reigns and were named after them too. These were very aesthetically built monuments showcasing the taste of the respective rulers. The tombs showcase the statute of the kings and are built in a way which perfectly synchronizes with the harmony that strings all the monuments in the same tune. The array of tombs presents a picture perfect of poetic setting in the lap of nature. The components which were incorporated in every of the constructions were: : walls, triple gate (Tam Quan Gate), Salutation Court, Stele House, temples, lakes and ponds, pavilions, gardens, and finally the tomb. In the year 1957, the Royal Tombs of Hue were enlisted as World's Wonders. Unfortunately most of the artifacts are now stolen by the French and the crooks. It is really unfortunate for Hue for losing one of its wonders. Still today Hue has retained its glory and has been regarded as "a masterpiece of urban poetry" by Mr. Amadou-Mahtar-M'Bow, the Director General of UNESCO in 1991. Some of the tombs of the rulers are: Minh Mang It took ten thousand soldiers and artisans to complete this tomb consisting 40 different monuments of various sizes and shapes. Tu Duc The romantic ruler left the impression of his romance on the architectural wonder. The monument was built as a fairyland with extreme poetic traits. Almost every poetic element seems to be embedded in this tomb.
Khai Dinh This tomb is characterized by the brilliant interiors of colored glass and ceramic chips. The oriental designs are created to give the tombs a distinct look that makes it stand out among the similar looking tombs.
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