Hao Lo Prison is a historical place in the capital of Vietnam, which has been adapted as a museum. The complex occupies approximately 2,400-2,500 square meters, but initially, during construction, the prison occupied 12,900 square meters. The authorities have given part of the territory for modern development. This made room for new buildings.
History
The construction of the Hao Lo Prison began on the initiative of the French colonial authorities in 1886 and ended in 1896. The long duration is explained by the scale of the project and the complexity of the work. The facility was designed on the model of the French correctional institutions Maison Centrale. These were not just cells for criminals, but blocks for prisoners with a medical center, guardhouses and workshops.
The correctional facility was a tool for suppressing resistance, and security issues were handled with extreme care. In the years 1955-1975, during the Vietnam War, American prisoners of war were held in Khao Loo Prison. During this period, the institution was nicknamed the "Hanoi Hilton". The unofficial name is still in use.
Description
To date, separate fragments of the Khao–Lo Prison have been preserved: the central entrance, representing the guardhouse at the gate, and part of the barracks. Most of the territory was demolished to open the Hanoi Towers shopping complex.
Hao–Lo prison looked different, but there were always harsh conditions here. The cells were often overcrowded with minimal equipment: with a capacity of 450 people, they could hold more than 2,000 prisoners. Concrete compartments for solitary confinement are called "tiger cages". It was especially difficult to stay in them because of the heat, lack of normal lighting and dampness.
The museum's exposition includes:
- transportation shackles;
- leg irons;
- the guillotine for execution.
Particular attention is drawn to fragments of the sewer system through which the prisoners tried to escape. The courtyard and guard areas are organized in such a way that it is possible to reduce communication between prisoners and thus eliminate the possibility of escape. There were attempts to be released, but they rarely ended in success. About 200 people have escaped throughout history.
How to get
Hao–Lo Prison now operates as a museum, where you can see the conditions of detention of prisoners and their fate. Hoan Kiem Lake is a 15-minute walk from the property. There is a bus route nearby №02, 09, 32, 34, 38, 49 and a Hop‑On‑Hop‑Off tour bus. You can also come here by motorcycle taxi or regular taxi, rented transport.
When planning a visit, it is recommended to clarify the schedule, as the work schedule may change. Admission is free for children, and a discount is provided upon presentation of a student ID. The average time to visit an unusual attraction is 1-1.5 hours.
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