
A road construction project along the Dong Nai River, from Hoa An Bridge to Vinh Cuu District, is expediting land clearance. This includes a century-old villa on the riverbank, which will have two-thirds of its area cleared to make way for the new road.

This is the historic villa of Doc Phu Vo Ha Thanh, commonly known as “Nha Lau Ong Phu” (Mr. Phu’s Villa).

The villa previously served as a filming location for the movie “Nguoi Dep Tay Do” (The Beauty of Tay Do).

Constructed in 1922 with French architectural influences, the villa was completed two years later.

After a century, the villa has become not just an architectural heritage but also a cultural icon, attracting many tourists along the Dong Nai River tourism route.

The villa holds a significant place in history, as it served as a refuge during the great flood of 1952, saving the lives of over 100 people in the Buu Long market area.


The villa is currently being preserved by the descendants of Doc Phu Vo Ha Thanh.


Time has left its mark on the century-old villa, evident in the worn doors, balconies, tiles, and walls.

With the commencement of the Dong Nai River road project (a 5.2-km road with a total investment of VND 1,300 billion), the People’s Committee of Bien Hoa City is clearing the land, including the area where the historic villa stands, to hand over to the construction unit.


According to the investor, two-thirds of the house falls within the project’s scope and must be demolished, while the owner wishes to preserve it.

So far, the local authorities have cleared about two-thirds of the land, with a progress rate of nearly 65%. The contractor is focusing on road foundation work, including grading, gravel paving, asphalt paving, concrete reinforcement, and drainage system installation in some sections.

Mr. Tran Quang Toai, Chairman of the Dong Nai Historical Science Association, emphasized the historical and cultural significance of the villa, which was built at the same time as the Administrative Headquarters of Bien Hoa in the early 20th century. Additionally, all construction materials were imported from France, enhancing its architectural value.


Mr. Tran Quang Toai also stated that preserving this historic villa would strengthen the cultural, historical, and tourism connections along the Dong Nai River, linking the villa with other ancient structures in the area.

On September 20, the People’s Committee of Dong Nai Province organized a survey team comprising representatives from the Department of Construction, Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the Historical Science Association, and leaders of Bien Hoa City to consider conservation options.

After inspecting the site and considering the owner’s wishes, the Department of Construction will consolidate the opinions of the departments and sectors before submitting them to the People’s Committee of Dong Nai Province for consideration and decision.
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