Since construction was completed in 1911, the capital’s opera house has been considered one of the city’s most prominent architectural landmarks. Modeled on the Palais Garnier, the oldest opera house in Paris, Hanoi’s own version has provided a stage to thousands of performers over the last century, from touring French musicians during colonial rule to modern-day acrobatics who regularly take part in Lune Production’s Làng Tôi (My Village) shows.
Despite extremely tumultuous periods of the capital’s history, Hanoi Opera House appears today much as it did in 1911. Street fighting took place right outside, while political events were organized within, yet the structure itself emerged from periods of conflict relatively unscathed.
In this collection of images collated by Flickr user Manhhai, we see the structure at different periods over the last 100 years – cyclists ambling past on quiet streets, political rallies passing by, a cinema sign hung above the stone steps. There are even early architectural designs of the building pre-construction.
|
If you have enjoyed our work and believe that Saigoneer’s voice is an important one to have, please consider supporting us. Pledge any amount you’re comfortable with in the form of a one-time or recurring donation so we can continue bringing you the stories you love to read.
