Hoa Lo Prison, AKA "The Hanoi Hilton".

[firth1974 2,659]

Hoa Lo Prison/Maison Centrale, was effectionally known as the "The Hanoi Hilton" by the flyers and aircrew that were unlucky enough to be shot down over North Vietnam.

Its a fantastic little place to visit, and should be high on your list of places to visit. But, as i found in quite a few places around Vietnam, it has some of the best propaganda to be found anywhere in the world. Well worth the entrance fee and an hour or so of your time.

the site first seen as the downed pilots entered the "Hilton" back in the 60/70's.....

The original front gate doors.......

The new and the old. Skyscraper thats now been built on the grounds of the former prison........

Now, we all know about this place through history lessons etc, but this is some of the best propaganda you will ever read or see, anywhere!!!!...........

Jon McCain's flight suit, parachute and helmet..........

[Butch 3,456]

Thanks again firth for an interesting photo shoot and insight into the Vietnam War and it's standing in Viet culture today.

 

On a lighter note, regarding the Hanoi Hilton, I can now see where the Eastiny group get their inspiration from.

 

A very interesting look into the war from the angle of the Viets and as an Englishman, to see some history from a conflict which we have not been privy to during our education or school years.

[Fireman Sam 336]

Great stuff firth, wouldn't mind a visit there myself now, maybe someday.

 

 

 

Regards

[N3RGT 118]

As usual Mr F your pics are very interesting, thanks for posting. By golly that guillotine looks a fearsome device although, really, it's nothing to lose your head about.!

[BigDUSA 71]

Interesting and excellent pictures of a brutal prison. Thanks for posting them.

[teelack 9,683]

Thanks for taking the time. Fascinating!