Are you a history enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in the fascinating heritage of Hanoi? Look no further than the Hanoi Ancient House at 87 Ma May Street. This hidden gem, tucked away in the heart of the Hanoi Old Quarter, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the city. Let’s embark on a virtual journey and discover the captivating lore surrounding this architectural marvel.
Location and History
Photo by @_minh.an
Dating back to the 19th century, the Hanoi Ancient House at 87 Ma May Street is one of the cherished traditional houses in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Originally built as a residence and place of business, this historic structure has witnessed the passage of time and experienced numerous changes in ownership.
Despite these transitions, the current owners, in collaboration with the government, have painstakingly preserved the original architectural integrity of the house. In the past, this remarkable abode was home to a renowned rice trader and later passed on to a medicine businessman. Eventually, the government allocated the property to five families in the late 1950s.
Photo by @nhlnhl193
During the late 1990s, the house underwent restoration efforts by both French and Vietnamese experts. Throughout this process, the construction materials were meticulously retained. Following restoration, the Hanoi People Committee took charge of managing the house, opening its doors to tourists as a living testament to ancient architectural splendor. In 2004, the remarkable Ma May ancient house earned its well-deserved recognition as a National Heritage site.
Architecture
The Ma May ancient house, spanning a total area of 157.6m², embraces the traditional “tube house” structure that was emblematic of its time. It features multiple layers, with the front measuring 5m in width and the back stretching to 6m. The length extends an impressive 28m, with a design philosophy that symbolizes prosperity and future happiness through a “blooming” backland.
The house comprises two main floors, encompassing a central courtyard and a small mezzanine. The mezzanine primarily serves as a storage area, ensuring that the overall height remains under 2.5m.
As you step into the first floor, you’ll encounter a storefront closest to the street, where goods were once displayed and sold. Crossing the courtyard, you’ll find the living quarters of the family. At the rear of the house lies the kitchen and toilet area.
Source: Instagram @macelosantos.elf
The central courtyard, adorned with bricks from the renowned Bat Trang village, provides ventilation and natural light for the entire premises. The former occupants had adorned this tranquil space with bonsai plants and a cozy seating area, transforming it into an oasis for relaxation and moonlit contemplation.
Ascending an aged wooden staircase brings you to the second floor. Here, the outer room serves as a dedicated worship corner and a warm reception space for esteemed guests. Adorned with a sofa and a teapot set, this room exudes a sense of gracious hospitality. The interior of the second floor is composed of bedrooms, with a charming space nestled between the two sections, adorned with floral accents and potted greenery, establishing a harmonious connection with nature.
Source: Instagram @mitzi_215
The furniture within the house predominantly features wood, ceramic, and bamboo elements. Constructed using ironwood and terracotta bricks, topped with a unique holy creature title roof and framed by grand doors, Ma May ancient house exudes an aura of tranquility and charm that transports you to a bygone era.
Traditional Performances
Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at the Ma May heritage site, which hosts various traditional performances, particularly during the mid-autumn festival period. The main pavilion showcases and promotes Vietnamese traditional handicrafts such as wind paper paintings, lacquerware, and ethnic musical instruments. Every morning, the house opens its doors to tourists, offering a glimpse into its storied past. Additionally, on weekend evenings at 7 pm, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the mesmerizing sounds of folk music (Ca Tru) performed by the talented artists of the Thang Long Guild.
Source: Instagram @kavee_youn
How to Get There
Situated on the vibrant Ma May Street in the Hanoi Old Quarter, reaching the ancient house is a breeze. A leisurely walk of fewer than 10 minutes from the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake will lead you to this captivating destination.
Useful Information
- Location: 87 Ma May Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Best for: Families, couples, solo travelers
- Entrance fee: 20,000 VND
- Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Distance to city center: 2.1km (1.3 mi)
The Hanoi Ancient House at 87 Ma May Street stands as a testament to the city’s rich historical legacy. Take a step back in time and delve into the captivating allure of this architectural masterpiece. For further information, visit Rừng Cúc Phương and prepare to be transported to a bygone era.
