Nestled in the majestic mountains of Ha Giang, the Vuong family mansion (also known as the Meo King’s Palace) is a unique ancient architectural work, bearing the historical and cultural imprint of the rocky plateau. This place used to be the center of power of the Vuong family – the richest and most influential family in the Dong Van region in the early 20th century.
1. Where is the Vuong family mansion?
The Vuong family mansion is located in Sa Phin valley, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province, about 130km from Ha Giang city. This work is located in the core area of the Dong Van stone plateau – a global geopark recognized by UNESCO.
2. History of the formation of the Meo King’s Palace
The Meo King’s Palace was built in the early 20th century by Mr. Vuong Chinh Duc – the Mong leader – to affirm the power and position of the family. The project took about 8 years to complete, with a total cost of up to 150,000 Indochinese silver coins at that time, equivalent to hundreds of billions of dong today.
The palace was built with the help of skilled Han Chinese craftsmen from Yunnan (China), combining a unique Asian-European architectural style, bringing an ancient, solid and luxurious beauty.
3. Unique architecture of the Vuong family mansion
The Vuong family mansion has an area of over 1,200m², designed in the shape of the word “王” (ie the word “Vuong” in Chinese). The project consists of three main areas: the front palace, the middle palace and the back palace, with a total of 64 rooms built of green stone, precious sa mu wood and traditional tiles.
The carved details on the doors, columns and roof tiles all show sophistication and intricacy, demonstrating the power and class of the Vuong family. Surrounding the palace are high stone walls and deep moats, creating a solid position like a military fortress.
4. Historical and cultural role
The Meo King Palace is not only the residence of the Vuong family but also the economic and political center of the rocky plateau during the French colonial period. This place is associated with many important events and is a symbol of the transformation between traditional and modern culture of the Mong people.
Today, the Vuong family’s palace has been recognized as a national monument, becoming a must-see attraction when traveling to Ha Giang.
5. Visiting the Meo King Palace – An experience not to be missed
When coming to the Meo King Palace, visitors will:
- Admire the unique architecture amidst the wild mountain scenery.
- Learn about the life, history of the Vuong family and the ancient Mong culture.
- Take photos with ancient, artistic scenes.
- Feel the quiet, peaceful and sacred space in the middle of Dong Van stone mountain.
6. Travel instructions
From Ha Giang city, visitors can follow National Highway 4C through Quan Ba and Yen Minh to Dong Van town, then turn into Sa Phin village – where the Vuong family mansion is located. The road is winding but it is a great experience for those who love to explore.
The Vuong family mansion – Meo King Palace is not only an impressive ancient architectural work but also a vivid testament to the history, culture and people of the Ha Giang highlands. This is a destination not to be missed for anyone who wants to understand more about the land at the head of the Fatherland and the mysterious stories of the Dong Van stone plateau.
