Nestled peacefully in Hậu Kiên Village, Triệu Thành Commune, Triệu Phong District, Quảng Trị Province – the birthplace of General Secretary Lê Duẩn – the Memorial Site of General Secretary Lê Duẩn is not only a significant historical relic, but also a revered "red address" imbued with profound cultural, educational, and revolutionary spirit.
Memorial site of general secretary Lê Duẩn (Photo: Hồng Ngọc)
With its harmonious architectural design blending traditional and modern elements, and its deep historical connection to one of Vietnam’s most prominent revolutionary leaders, the Memorial Site of General Secretary Lê Duẩn has become an increasingly attractive destination on Vietnam’s cultural and historical tourism map.
First constructed in 2002, the site marks the childhood home and birthplace of General Secretary Lê Duẩn, a brilliant strategist and key leader of Vietnam’s revolutionary movement. More than just a commemorative space, the memorial serves as a "red address" for educating younger generations on the revolutionary tradition and national pride. In 2010, the site was officially recognized as a National Historical Relic by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
Over time, the site’s facilities had deteriorated and could no longer meet the increasing demand for tourism, education, and cultural research. In response, Quảng Trị Province launched a major preservation and renovation project, with a total investment of 45 billion VND. The project includes comprehensive upgrades to key structures such as the Memorial House, Exhibition and Commemoration Hall, Reception and Management House, historical marker, river dock, gardens, and lighting systems.
All components are carefully designed to harmonize with the local cultural landscape, ensuring functionality for visitors while preserving the historical authenticity of the site.
On April 28, 2025, the province of Quảng Trị held a solemn inauguration ceremony for the newly renovated memorial, in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025) and the 118th Birthday of General Secretary Lê Duẩn (April 7, 1907 – April 7, 2025).
Exterior view of the exhibition and commemoration hall (Photo: Hồng Ngọc)
General Secretary Lê Duẩn, born Lê Văn Nhuận on April 7, 1907 in Triệu Phong District, Quảng Trị Province, was a towering figure in Vietnam’s revolutionary history. Over nearly 60 years of revolutionary service, including 26 years as First Secretary and then General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (1960–1986), he played a central role in formulating major political strategies and guiding the nation to ultimate victory in 1975, laying the groundwork for the socialist reconstruction period.
As the principal author of the "Outline for the Southern Revolution", a critical theoretical document, he helped shape the Party’s strategic directives during one of the most difficult periods in Vietnam’s history. Under his leadership, the Party, the army, and the people of Vietnam overcame tremendous challenges to achieve the historic Spring Victory of 1975, a glorious milestone in the nation's struggle for independence and reunification.
Beyond his military and political contributions, Comrade Lê Duẩn was also a visionary theorist, leaving behind a legacy of influential writings that remain important in Vietnam’s revolutionary intellectual heritage. He symbolized absolute loyalty to the Nation and the People, and maintained unwavering faith in the country’s future, even in its darkest times.
At the Lê Duẩn Memorial Site, his life and revolutionary career are vividly portrayed through hundreds of original artifacts, photos, handwritten notes, and historical documents. Every detail adds depth to the portrait of a great leader whose strategic vision shaped the fate of Vietnam—particularly through the legacy of the "Southern Revolutionary Thesis".
The Lê Duẩn Memorial Site is a comprehensive complex consisting of:
- The Memorial House, where his family lived after moving from Bích La Đông to Hậu Kiên, now serving as a shrine honoring his parents and himself;
- The Exhibition and Commemoration Hall, where ceremonies and guided tours are conducted, and where visitors can explore detailed exhibits on his life and revolutionary achievements.
With its integration of historical, cultural, and ecological elements, the memorial is not only a place of remembrance but also a vital part of the spiritual and cultural life of the local community. It plays an important role in preserving and promoting national heritage, inspiring current and future generations.
View of the Memorial House (Photo: Hồng Ngọc)
A glimpse inside the Memorial House (Photos by Hồng Ngọc)
With a well-curated exhibition system and profound historical content, the Memorial Site of General Secretary Lê Duẩn is considered an “open-air classroom”, where younger generations can explore history in a vivid and practical manner. Students, young officials, and youth groups frequently visit to participate in educational tours, experiential activities, historical storytelling, and open discussions — nurturing a deep love for the homeland, gratitude for former generations, and a strong sense of national responsibility.
Some interior photos of the exhibition and commemoration house (Photos by Hồng Ngọc):
With advantages in landscape, historical value, and strong investment from the local authorities, the site holds great potential for developing various forms of tourism, such as: Educational tourism, Experiential historical–cultural tourism, Gratitude tourism & pilgrimages to revolutionary sites.
If you are a history lover, someone who values national heritage, or simply seeking a peaceful space to reflect — then the Memorial Site of General Secretary Lê Duẩn is a destination not to be missed on your journey to discover the land and people of Quảng Trị.
IPA
