The pavilion with part of its roof collapsed in May last year. — VNS Photo Hue Phong

THUA THIEN-HUE (VNS) — Conservation work began yesterday on Hue's iconic building, the Phu Van Lau Pavilion, costing a total of VND12 billion (US$600,000) to be taken from the local budget.

The Institute of Construction Science and Technology will manage the two-year construction efforts, restoring the wood structure, earthen tiled roof, decorative details and paint.

Phu Van Lau, built in 1818 during the reign of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945)'s first emperor Gia Long, is an unique two-storey traditional wooden structure.

It served as a place to announce examination results organized by the monarchy and as a site for the King's entertainment.

Seated directly in front of the imperial citadel, the pavilion is an icon of Hue's former royal city. Since 2003, Viet Nam's 50,000 dong notes have featured the pavilion.

The pavilion has been restored eight times in its lifetime. On May 15 of last year, a corner of the roof collapsed because of its crumbling wooden structure, requiring emergency repairs.

The Hue Monument Conservation Centre, who manages the pavilion, spent VND100 million ($4,600) to fix the collapse. — VNS