We got to our final day in HCMC and went back to the place we found closed on our first day: The Reunification Palace (aka Independence Palace). It was originally constructed as the home for the French Governer of Indochina and following World War Two became the palace for the ruler of South Vietnam.
In 1962 the palace was damaged by two rebel pilots who infiltrated the South Vietnamese Air Force, it was damaged and subsequently demolished and rebuilt in a modern style (which is now a great example of 1960s architecture).
Once the North Vietnamese took Saigon and a tank stormed the palace gates they kept the palace as it was to use for functions. It became a symbol of the reunification of Vietnam and hence is now known as the Reunification or Independence Palace. It is also now a museum of 60s design and kitsch style which makes a great change from the opulence of all the other palaces we have seen!
Cabinet meeting room, Reunification Palace
State function dining room, Reunification Palace
Diplomatic reception room, Reunification Palace
Games room, Reunification Palace
Beyond the glamour of the upstairs there was also a fully kitted out bunker underneath the palace.
Bunker, Reunification Palace
Bunker, Reunification Palace
Communications Bunker, Reunification Palace
On the way out there was even another shooting range (not in use) and a playground outside. It was definitely one of the highlights of Saigon and made a change from all the serious war sights!
