The tower's design incorporates a spiral staircase leading to the top, which was historically used by military lookouts.
During the French colonial period, the tower was repurposed as a military observation deck by the French army.
The structure's base is shaped like a square pyramid with three distinct platforms.
An internal spiral staircase connects the interior levels to the observation platforms.
The flag currently flying atop the tower is the National Flag of Vietnam, maintained by the government.
The tower is part of the larger UNESCO-listed Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long complex.
The Hanoi Flagtower, known locally as Cot Co Ha Noi, is one of the few structures in the city that survived the French colonial destruction of the Hanoi Citadel. Completed in 1812 during the reign of Emperor Gia Long of the Nguyen Dynasty, it served as an observation post for the military. The structure stands 33.4 meters tall, rising to over 41 meters when including the flag-bearing pole. It comprises three stacked tiers of diminishing size, topped by a pavilion-like base. The tower is built of brick and stone, following a design typical of 19th-century Vietnamese fortification architecture. Historically, it functioned as an essential signaling tower for military movements within the citadel. In 1954, it became the first site where the North Vietnamese flag was hoisted after the withdrawal of French troops. Today, it stands as a symbol of Vietnamese independence and historical resilience. It is officially protected as a national historical monument.
From the grass-covered grounds looking up toward the flag against the sky.
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full vertical height of the tower from the base.
Combine this visit with a walk through the neighboring Imperial Citadel of Thang Long grounds.
Carry a bottle of water as there is limited shade at the immediate base of the tower.
Avoid rushing; the historical context of the surrounding citadel grounds is essential to understanding the tower's importance.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a respectful tone as it is a significant national monument; keep noise levels low.
