Detailed Content
History and Architecture: A Century of Transition from the Opera House to the National Assembly This theater was designed by French architect Eugène Ferret, with construction starting in 1898 and completed in 1900. Its architectural style is heavily influenced by the "Flamboyant" style of the French Third Republic, and the design inspiration for the facade is even believed to reference the Petit Palais in Paris.
Twisted Origins: It was not always a theater. From 1955 until the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, it was converted into the Lower House of Assembly of the South Vietnamese Government. To accommodate political use, many of the ornate French decorations and nude statues were deemed "too decadent" and were removed or covered up.
Revival of Splendor: It wasn't until 1998, to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Saigon's founding, that the government undertook a massive restoration based on the original design plans, restoring the previously removed goddess statues, the two angel sculptures on the roof, and the intricate wall reliefs, bringing it back to its 19th-century grandeur.
Must-Visit Highlights
Caryatids at the Entrance: On either side of the main entrance, two massive stone caryatids "support" the porch, a highly representative element of French classical architecture, showcasing the combination of strength and beauty.
A O Show (Vietnamese Cirque du Soleil): If your budget allows, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets. This is not a traditional opera, but a visual feast that combines the bamboo weaving culture of rural Vietnam, modern dance, and acrobatics. Enjoying modern art in a century-old monument creates an excellent atmosphere.
Interior Dome and Crystal Chandelier: The theater's interior is designed in a horseshoe shape, providing excellent acoustics, and when you look up, you can see the exquisite French dome murals and luxurious crystal chandeliers (tickets are required to see these).
Visiting Tips
Best Photo Spots:
Frontal Panorama: Standing in front of the theater at Lam Son Square, you can capture the complete facade of the theater along with the modern hotels on either side (such as the Continental Hotel) for a contrast of old and new.
Night Scene Mode: The theater is most beautiful at night. When warm yellow spotlights shine on the white reliefs and stone columns, the entire theater glows like a jewelry box, appearing more three-dimensional and dramatic than during the day.
Nearby Attractions: Directly across from the theater is the famous "Metro Station Square" and shopping district, with the historic Hotel Continental Saigon (the filming location for the movie "The Quiet American") nearby, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
