Hoa Lo Prison was built by the French colonial administration in the late 19th century and was originally used to house political prisoners. Over the years, the site has witnessed important historical events and changes in Vietnam's history.

Today, a significant portion of the complex has been converted into a museum dedicated to the lives of prisoners and the various stages of the country's development. Exhibits include reconstructions of cells, historical documents, photographs, and household items.

Visitors can see original elements of the prison's infrastructure, including cell doors, courtyards, and various rooms preserved from the colonial period. Exhibitions detail the daily lives of prisoners and the conditions of their detention.

The museum pays great attention to historical context, helping to understand the political and social processes that took place in Vietnam in different eras.

Today, Hoa Lo Prison is an important memorial site that helps preserve the memory of the country's difficult history and remains one of the most visited historical sites in Hanoi.