Hàng Đậu Water Tower is at the junction of the old streets of Hàng Than, Hàng Lược, Hàng Giấy, Hàng Đậu, Quán Thánh and Phan Đình Phùng. — VNS Photos Trương Vị

Hàng Đậu Water Tower opens to the public for the first time in Hà Nội on Friday. The 25m-high ancient water tower, which is likened to the "Roman Colosseum", was built during the French colonial period. It has classic and sophisticated European architecture.

Hàng Đậu Water Tower in the changing seasons makes a poetic scene, like a European city view, attracting a lot of people to visit and take pictures.

In 1894 the city was facing extreme difficulties as epidemics raged. People had to get daily water from dug wells or ponds throughout Hà Nội. The use of polluted water affected the health of local people, as well as thousands of French soldiers. The water tower played a significant role in improving these conditions, and remained in operation until 1960.

From a distance, the ancient water tower looks extremely solid. It is built in a cylindrical shape, about 19m in diameter and more than 25m in height.

Located at the junction of the old streets of Hàng Than, Hàng Lược, Hàng Giấy, Hàng Đậu, Quán Thánh and Phan Đình Phùng, it has witnessed many ups and downs through history. In the past, it was threatened with demolition during wars, as well, and for business purposes.

This is the first time Hàng Đậu Water Tower has been opened to the public.

To this day, it still retains the characteristic ancient architecture of the period and is considered a vestige of old Hà Nội. Throughout more than 100 years of history, this place is well loved by Hà Nội people.

Hàng Đậu Water Tower in the changing seasons makes a poetic scene, like a European city view, attracting a lot of people to visit and take pictures. VNS

The space inside the building has been transformed into an impressive art venue with wooden walking paths and installations made from recycled waste.