Temple of Literature
One of the most beautiful historical sites in Vietnam, Temple of Literature is widely regarded as one of Hanoi's most magnificent tourist sites. The edifice was built in 1070 as the first university and has survived several conflicts. Until recently, the Temple of Literature was a remarkable example of Vietnamese traditional architecture. This ancient site includes a lake of books, the Well of Heavenly Clarity, stone steles, pavilions, and passageways originally utilized by royal families. When you visit the Temple of Literature, you will be able to see spectacular architecture as well as many historical treasures from the Ly and Tran dynasties. Aside from that, the Temple of Literature has seen hundreds of doctors graduate. Successful graduates have their names and accomplishments etched on a stone.
From the exterior, the entire Temple of Literature complex is encircled by four enormous brick walls – the most typical building materials of the post-Le period – creating an old area. Glass, elegant and nostalgic. Inside the wall, the historic architectural roofs are concealed behind the lush foliage of the ancient trees, producing a completely different view from the outside and a unique attraction for tourists.
A big lake called Ho Van lies in front of Van Mieu, across the Quoc Tu Giam. Previously, in the center of the lake, there is Kim Chau mound, on the building of a house – "Judge of the House," where the Confucian poetry ritual takes place. Now that the family has passed away, stakes constructed in 18 Tu Duc 18 (1865) document the rebuilding of the Temple of Literature atop the mound.
For centuries, major events, study sessions, and stringent tests were held at the Temple of Literature. With many traditional characteristics, this historic landmark is usually rated as one of Hanoi's most important cultural locations and an irreplaceable part of Vietnamese history. It's worth noting that the picture of Khue Van Pavillion at Temple of Literature appears on the reverse of the 100,000 VN banknote.
Location: No. 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street, Van Mieu Ward, Dong Da District, Hanoi.
