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Nestled in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the Sofitel Legend Metropole is a symbol of colonial elegance with its pristine white façade and sleek black shutters. Since opening its doors in 1901, this luxury hotel has been a haven for political figures, celebrities, and notable personalities, including French Presidents François Mitterrand and Jacques Chirac, author Graham Greene, actress Jane Fonda, and comedian Charlie Chaplin. In 2019, it famously hosted the summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
But beneath the polished surface of this iconic hotel lies a hidden story. Beneath the elegant lobby, with its glossy tiles and inviting atmosphere, lies a secret bunker that served as a refuge during the Vietnam War. Built in 1965, during the height of the conflict, the bunker was designed to protect guests from American air raids. The facility, which could accommodate up to 100 people, was divided into four rooms and featured two separate entrances.
For years after the war, the bunker was forgotten, its historical significance hidden beneath layers of time. It wasn’t until 2011, during renovations, that the shelter was rediscovered. Today, the Metropole offers two daily tours to this fascinating underground space, allowing visitors to explore its preserved chambers at 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
Stepping into the bunker, guests are transported back in time. The dim lighting and original furniture, left untouched for decades, create an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. A particularly poignant moment comes when guests listen to the haunting song “Where Are You Now, My Son” by Joan Baez, who stayed in the bunker during her visits to Vietnam. This song, which she recorded while at the Metropole, serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of war and Baez’s transformation into a peace activist.
Beyond the Metropole, visitors interested in Vietnam’s wartime history can explore the Hoa Lo Prison, once a site of confinement for American POWs, including Senator John McCain. Now a multimedia museum, it offers English-language exhibits that provide an in-depth look into this dark chapter of history. The Vietnam Military History Museum, which opened in late 2024, also showcases military equipment, including American aircraft, tanks, missiles, and artillery used during the war. For a more serene experience, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum remains a must-visit landmark for those exploring Hanoi’s rich history.
Interestingly, the Metropole today attracts a diverse group of travelers, with a notable increase in American visitors, including veterans returning to revisit the country. Younger American tourists are also drawn to Hanoi’s unique blend of culinary experiences, culture, and scenic beauty.
For history buffs and curious travelers, the Sofitel Legend Metropole is more than just a luxury hotel—it’s a gateway to Vietnam’s storied past.
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Resource: https://vnexpress.net/can-ham-bi-an-duoi-khach-san-hang-sang-o-ha-noi-4880535.html
