Buon Ma Thuot Prison

Buon Ma Thuot Prison is a preserved colonial-era prison in central Buon Ma Thuot City, Dak Lak Province, in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Built by the French administration in 1930-1931, it was used to detain political prisoners and is now designated a Special National Relic. The site retains original walls, cells, shackles and exhibitions, offering insight into its architecture and historical role in the region.

Visitors can expect a compact, open-air historic complex in the city center with thick stone walls, watchtowers, gated entrance, and rows of restored prison cells. Inside are shackles, mannequins, artifacts, photographs and information boards describing the prison's layout and history. The grounds include a memorial area and shaded pathways. The visit is primarily walk-through sightseeing and educational viewing of preserved structures and exhibits.

Built in 1930-1931 by the French colonial administration on an area of about 2 hectares, Buon Ma Thuot Prison was used to detain political prisoners from central Vietnam. It was expanded over time and held several thousand prisoners during its operation. Recognized as a National Historic Relic in 1980 and later as a Special National Relic, it is preserved as evidence of the colonial prison system and its associated history.

The prison is preserved as a cultural and educational site that reflects the history of Buon Ma Thuot and the Central Highlands. It serves as a place for visitors to learn about the region's past, colonial architecture, and the historical experience of those detained there, and is used for educational visits and commemorative activities.