The Hue Monuments Conservation Centre said preparations were under way for the restoration of Thai To Mieu, the main structure in the Thai Mieu complex.
The second phase, approved in 2021, is expected to begin in early 2027, with an investment of more than VND 220 billion and a four-year timeline.
The first phase, which began in October 2024 with an investment of VND 52 billion, has reached about 79 per cent completion. It mainly covers auxiliary structures and landscaping across the complex.
The foundations of Thai To Mieu, a screen wall, gates and surrounding walls have largely been restored, while work is continuing on several other structures, courtyards and walkways.
The first phase is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, around 20 months ahead of schedule.
The Hue Monuments Conservation Centre has completed research and collected historical documents needed for the restoration of Thai To Mieu, the largest of five temples within the Hue Imperial City.
Built in 1804 under Emperor Gia Long, the Thai Mieu complex is located in the southeastern corner of the Imperial City and originally comprised 13 structures.
Thai To Mieu, its main wooden structure, was built in the traditional trung thiem diep oc architectural style and served as a place of worship for nine Nguyen lords, from Nguyen Hoang to Nguyen Phuc Thuan.
From 1832, during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, the temple was also used for royal ceremonies.
The complex remained largely intact until 1947, when it was severely damaged, leaving mainly foundations and several auxiliary structures.
In 1972, the Nguyen Phuoc clan council, led by Tu Cung, mother of Emperor Bao Dai, raised funds to build a smaller five-bay structure on the site of the former main temple for worship.
That building later deteriorated significantly, prompting the ancestral tablets of the Nguyen lords to be moved to Trieu Mieu.
The centre said the restoration would revive an important Nguyen-era temple while preserving the heritage value of the UNESCO-listed Hue monument complex.
