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If you're a native of Hanoi, you've probably walked along Nguyen Dinh Thi street by West Lake, near Thanh Nien street, behind the historic Chu Van An High School, more than once. This stretch of road is not only one of Hanoi's most beautiful and romantic spots, but it also hides a "gem" that you might easily miss if you don't pay close attention. It's a centuries-old villa overlooking the picturesque West Lake, a precious historical heritage and a source of pride for the students of Chu Van An High School.
A 123-year-old villa by the breezy West Lake.
Although located within the grounds of Chu Van An High School, passersby on Nguyen Dinh Thi Street can still admire the beauty of the old villa. With its distinctive French architecture and impressive octagonal shape, it is now known as the "Octagonal House".
The Octagonal House was built in 1898 to be the private villa of Henri Schneider, a 19th-century French paper mill owner. At that time, it was called La Villa Schneider (Schneider's Villa). When the Protectorate High School (the former name of Chu Van An High School) was established, the villa was owned by the French principal. After restoration and renovation in 1999, it officially became the school library, and remains so to this day.
The Octagonal House features ancient architecture from the 19th century.
The allure of the Octagonal House stems not only from its long history but also from its unique architecture, imbued with the spirit of bygone eras. From the intricately carved motifs on each wall, the gracefully curved archways, the large doors that flood with light, to the harmoniously winding staircase; all create a blend of beauty and mystery, yet remain remarkably familiar, evoking a Hanoi of yesteryear that seems to exist only in books.
Its location right next to West Lake also bestows upon the Octagonal House a rare romantic and tranquil charm. On a summer afternoon at sunset, magical shades of orange, red, pink, and purple pierce through the green foliage, casting shadows on the ancient walls, reflecting on the spacious balconies, and shimmering in the windows. Enchanted by this beauty, countless people come here, simply to gaze at the old villa from behind the fence, take a few photos, and enjoy a peaceful moment, reminiscing about a bygone era.
A place that holds the imprint of innocent school days.
The Octagonal House is not only a beloved historical site in Hanoi but also an integral part of the school days of countless generations of students at Chu Van An High School. The library, with over 10,000 books, serves as a place for students to research, study, and relax amidst the scent of fresh paper. Furthermore, the Octagonal House houses a psychological counseling room, the Student Union office, and the Principal's office. Therefore, it also connects generations of teachers and students at the school.
The classroom space is cozy and full of memories.
According to Linh, a representative of C-Library at Chu Van An High School, what students love most about the Octagonal House is the large windows that let in plenty of sunlight, the spacious and peaceful rooftop overlooking West Lake, and the beautiful balconies overlooking the lush green campus. In particular, the large balcony of the Octagonal House was once used to reenact the famous play Romeo and Juliet; and somehow, generations of students have passed down the belief that confessing your feelings there will ensure lasting love. Even more interestingly, a couple who were former students of the school once took their wedding photos on that very balcony.
In the library of the Octagonal House, one can sometimes find many letters tucked inside books. These could be whispered confessions, or perhaps self-admonitions that Chu Van An High School students often keep in their most trusted place. Besides that, the Octagonal House is also a place where many students come to relax, chat, and sing, creating a warm and familiar atmosphere.
The Octagonal House is a place that holds many memories for the students of Chu Van An High School.
"I've always felt that the Octagonal House possesses a very sacred spirit. My heartfelt wish is to spread love and passion for this place, so that people can go from being curious to liking it and then deeply loving it, just like me. I hope that generations of Chu Van An students will all have the opportunity to experience and cherish many memories in this ancient villa before they grow up," shared Linh.
For over a century, witnessing the many ups and downs of the times, the Octagonal House has become an indispensable part of Chu Van An High School, of countless generations of its students, and of Hanoi. Amidst the increasingly rapid pace of urbanization, this ancient gem has preserved the simple, unhurried soul of old Hanoi – the Hanoi that we all love and are deeply attached to.
