Journey into History: The Underground Bunker of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
A Hidden World Beneath the Glamour
Discover a remarkable historical site: the underground bunker of the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. This forgotten refuge lay dormant for nearly 40 years before its rediscovery in 2011. Located near the hotel's swimming pool, the bunker's entrance leads to a cramped, aged space, filled with the musty scent of history—a portal to a bygone era.
Echoes of the Past
Spanning approximately 40 square meters and divided into six rooms, the bunker could accommodate 15 to 20 people, designed to withstand heavy bombing. From the late 1960s through the winter of 1972, it served as a sanctuary for guests and staff during air raids. Celebrated figures like American actress Jane Fonda, anti-war activist Tom Hayden, and singer Joan Baez sought shelter here. Baez even recorded part of her song "Where Are You Now, My Son?" within its walls during the winter of 1972.
Rediscovery and Preservation
After the war, the bunker was sealed and gradually faded from memory. In late 2011, during renovations to the hotel's bar, construction workers stumbled upon this hidden relic. Kai Speth, the hotel's general manager at the time, decided to restore and preserve the bunker, transforming it into a space for exploration and historical reflection. Since 2012, the hotel has offered complimentary tours to staying guests, held daily at 5 PM and 6 PM, limited to 10 people per tour to ensure its conservation.
Recognition for Preservation
In 2013, the hotel's bunker received an honorable mention for cultural heritage preservation, acknowledging the efforts to restore and safeguard a significant piece of history. The preservation of the Metropole Hanoi shelter is a window into the past.
Plan Your Visit
Interested in experiencing this unique piece of history? Contact the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi directly for further details and tour reservations. Explore the hidden depths of Hanoi's past.
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