Hỏa Lò Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a historical site located in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is a reminder of the country’s tumultuous past, and the atrocities committed during French colonialism and the Vietnam War. Today, it serves as a museum and a place of reflection for those who wish to learn more about the country’s history.
History and Significance
Hỏa Lò Prison was originally built by the French in the late 1800s to house Vietnamese political prisoners who were fighting for their country’s independence. The prison was notoriously cruel, and many prisoners were subjected to inhumane treatment and torture.
During the Vietnam War, the prison was used by the North Vietnamese to house American prisoners of war, including Senator John McCain. The conditions in the prison were terrible, and many of the prisoners were subjected to torture and mistreatment.
(Read: How John McCain’s Years as a Vietnam POW Shaped His Life)
About 200-300 American pilots were taken to Hoa Lo Prison for interrogation and torture. Although prominent displays of shackles hang on the walls, the focus of the prison is on Vietnamese revolutionaries, many of whom were executed there. Additionally, American prisoners recorded their own experiences, but few of these accounts are on display at Hoa Lo Prison today.
Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi
If you are interested in learning more about the Vietnam War and the French influence in Vietnam, we highly recommend including a visit to Hỏa Lò Prison on your tour itinerary. The prison serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during these tumultuous periods in Vietnam’s history, and the museum provides a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s complex past. Don’t miss out on this important and informative destination!
👉 Checkout the Vietnam War and the French influence in Vietnam Tour
Opening Hours:
Open daily from 08:00 until 17:00 and closed from lunch from 11:30 until 13:30
ENTRY FEES
Adult: 30.000 VND (approx $1.30)
Student/child/senior: 15.000 VND (approx $0.65)
You can buy tickets online here.
Maison Centrale in Hanoi
Because Maison Centrale is accessed through a gate on Hoa Lo Street with the sign Maison Centrale at the entrance, therefore taking a taxi is the easiest way to get to the prison. simultaneously, you can pay a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake nearby.
Opening Hours: open daily from 08:00 until 17:00 and closed from lunch from 11:30 until 13:30
Location: Hoa Lo Street
Take a way
History and Significance
- Built by the French in the late 1800s.
- Housed Vietnamese political prisoners fighting for independence.
- Notoriously cruel with inhumane treatment and torture.
- Used by North Vietnamese to house American prisoners of war, including Senator John McCain.
- Terrible conditions with torture and mistreatment.
The Museum and Exhibits
- Showcases atrocities committed by the French and Vietnamese.
- Exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays.
- Replica of the “Hanoi Hilton” cell where Senator John McCain was held.
Conclusion
Hỏa Lò Prison is a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning about Vietnam’s history. It serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the country’s struggle for independence and the Vietnam War.
The museum provides a powerful and emotional experience that allows visitors to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s complex history.
Hoa Lo Prison Memorial FAQ
What is Hoa Lo Prison?
Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a historical site located in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam. It was originally built by the French in the late 1800s to house Vietnamese political prisoners who were fighting for their country’s independence. During the Vietnam War, the prison was used by the North Vietnamese to house American prisoners of war, including Senator John McCain.
What are the opening hours of Hoa Lo Prison?
Hoa Lo Prison is open daily from 08:00 until 17:00, but it is closed for lunch from 11:30 until 13:30.
How much does it cost to visit Hoa Lo Prison?
The entry fee for adults is 30,000 VND (approximately $1.30), and the fee for students/children/seniors is 15,000 VND (approximately $0.65).
What is the Maison Centrale in Hanoi?
The Maison Centrale is another name for Hoa Lo Prison. It is accessed through a gate on Hoa Lo Street, and is located near Hoan Kiem Lake.
What exhibits can be found at Hoa Lo Prison?
Hoa Lo Prison showcases the atrocities committed by the French and Vietnamese during the country’s struggle for independence and the Vietnam War. Exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays. There is also a replica of the “Hanoi Hilton” cell where Senator John McCain was held.
