Nestled at the junction of Le Duan and Mac Dinh Chi streets in District 1, it opened its doors to the public as part of the 2023 European Heritage Day program on September 16.
The mansion was built on high grounds in 1872 by naval engineers for Admiral Maire Jules Dupré.
Over the years it bore witness to numerous historical transformations, serving as the residence and workplace for generations of French ambassadors and generals during the Indochina era. Following Vietnam's reunification in 1975, the building assumed its present role as the French consulate.
The two-story building features classic French architecture, including arched entrances and large windowed corridors, harmonizing the grandeur of an important building with the intimacy of a home. The building remained untouched from 1969 until undergoing extensive restoration in 2000.
The two floors are encompassed by corridors on all sides to shield the interiors from the outside noise and weather. Each corridor has 32 towering green shutters, 5 meters tall, to facilitate air circulation and allow in light.
The mansion's wooden staircase is bathed in sunlight coming in through its classical windows. Photo by Thinh Vuong
On the ground floor, two interconnected dining rooms cater to various occasions. The smaller one, illuminated by warm lighting, is furnished with wooden tables and chairs, ceramics and art pieces.
A highlight is the eight pearl-inlay paintings, depicting battles from Chinese stories and history, adding an ancient allure to the room. Photo by Thinh Vuong
A writing desk adorned with an opium pipe and a Champa period (10th century) Naga snake head statue.
The ceramic bowls, tureens and vases in distinctive blue color were crafted by Chinese artisans at the Nguyen's court's request in Vietnam during the late 20th century. These items were not available in China at that time.
Outside the banquet room, a glass cabinet contains knives, forks and spoons for use at the banquet table.
Outside the building, visitors are greeted by a garden bathed in sunlight.
The expansive garden, encircled by cobblestone pathways and tranquil surroundings, transports visitors to a serene space, seemingly detached from the bustling streets just beyond the iron gate.
Visitors received a postcard featuring an image of the mansion. Through a mobile application, these postcards come to life with moving images and background music, offering a summary of its 150-year history.
