The architectural style of Nha Rong Wharf

Nha Rong Wharf was put into construction on March 4, 1863. The project finished in 1 year. The architecture of the building is in Western architectural style; however, on the roof, two large terracotta dragons are attached with green glaze and head to the moon according to the motif of “Two dragons adoring the moon” - a familiar decoration of the communal house. Vietnamese temple. The two gables of the building have the symbol M.I. (short for Messageries Impériales) and can be seen from the direction of the Saigon River or the direction of Khanh Hoi Street.

In 1871, due to the influence of the Republic, the company changed its name to “Messageries Maritimes”. The moon detail on the roof has been replaced with the company’s emblems of the crown, anchor, and horse’s head. Insignia “Horsehead” refers to the time in France, the company carried road transport with horse-drawn carts, and “Anchor” represented ships. Therefore, it is also known as Horse Head firm.

After 1955, the government of the Republic of Vietnam restored the roof of the house and replaced the two old dragons with two other dragons with their heads turned out. Since then, the architecture of Nha Rong is almost intact to this day.