After it was known U.S. Senator John McCain was once imprisoned here during the Vietnam War, this prison naturally became more famous, and made it a must-visit place for many visitors to Hanoi.
However, this prison is really much more than a few famous individuals during the Vietnam War. Originally built by the French to imprison political foes, it was later used by the Vietnamese to lock up U.S. POWs during the Vietnam War. As it was, John McCain was then imprisoned here after his aircraft was shot down.
However, this prison is really much more than a few famous individuals during the Vietnam War. Originally built by the French to imprison political foes, it was later used by the Vietnamese to lock up U.S. POWs during the Vietnam War. As it was, John McCain was then imprisoned here after his aircraft was shot down.
Similarly, this place of interest also shows much more. It reconstructed life as a political prisoner under the French, and you get to see the standard uniform issued to all inmates of Maison Centrale, the former name of this prison when run by the French.
Chillingly, one can also view the guillotine that was used to behead prisoners during the French colonial period. Be prepared, as the sight of it can send shivers down your spine. Look out also, for the basket below the guillotine that is used to catch the head.
One can also view the portrayed examples of former escape attempts, and the ingenious ways prisoners used in their attempts to escape.
One can also view the portrayed examples of former escape attempts, and the ingenious ways prisoners used in their attempts to escape.
Of course, no visit to this prison is complete without some information of John McCain. Visitors can view his flight suit and parachute, along with pictures that were taken during his time in this prison. Further information on how he spent his time here are also only display.
As a word of caution, do take all the information provided in this museum with a pinch of salt. Certain materials may have been exaggerated, or been restrained, in order to paint a more appealing picture of this prison. Accept this, and one will generally have a more engaging time here.
Unfortunately, much of this prison has been demolished to make way for commercial developments. Visitors can only learn about this prison through all that has remained. Nevertheless, the many artefacts and displays allow us to learn much!
As a word of caution, do take all the information provided in this museum with a pinch of salt. Certain materials may have been exaggerated, or been restrained, in order to paint a more appealing picture of this prison. Accept this, and one will generally have a more engaging time here.
Unfortunately, much of this prison has been demolished to make way for commercial developments. Visitors can only learn about this prison through all that has remained. Nevertheless, the many artefacts and displays allow us to learn much!
