Temple of Literature (Temple of Confucius) Hanoi

Contest Entry Code: 89b8438a14544172ab8ed31f85a06ec1

Unit: Individual

Place of creation: Phường Đống Đa, Hà Nội, Vietnam

The Temple of Literature, also known as the Temple of Confucius, is a transmitted cultural and historical site in Hanoi dedicated to Confucius. Established in 1070 under Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, the temple hosted Vietnam's first national university, the Imperial Academy, from 1076 to 1779. The site underwent several reconstructions during the Tran dynasty (1225–1400) and subsequent dynasties. In front of the Temple of Literature lies Giam Lake (Van Lake), with the picturesque Kim Chau Hill at its center. This hill is home to Phan Thuy Duong, once a gathering place for Confucian scholars to engage in literary discussions. Adjacent to the complex is Giam Garden, a lush area of 7,937 square meters. The entrance features a stately Great Gate framed by four tall pillars and two horse-riding steles. The pillars, constructed of bricks, are crowned with two intricately carved lions. The main gate, dating back to the 19th century, is a beautiful two-story structure with three access points, embellished with floral designs and inscriptions honoring Vietnam's Confucian education system. Beyond the gate, three pathways guide visitors through the temple complex: the central path for monarchs, flanked by side paths for administrative and military Mandarins. The temple's interior is a series of five courtyards, each with its distinct features: First Courtyard (Nhat Dao area - Entrance to the Way) This courtyard is a serene, green space stretching from the Great Gate to the Dai Trung (Great Middle Gate), framed by the smaller Dat Tai and Thanh Duc gates. Second Courtyard (Khue Van Pavilion) Extending from Dai Trung Gate, this courtyard showcases the iconic Khue Van Pavilion, built in 1805. This emblem of Hanoi has a two-story design with brick pillars and a wooden upper level adorned with stylized dragon motifs. Third Courtyard Home to the Thien Quang Well (Well of Heavenly Brilliance) and the Doctor's stelae, this courtyard commemorates scholars of the royal examinations held between 1442 and 1779. The stone stelae, initiated under Emperor Le Thanh Tong in 1484, bears the names and origins of 1,304 successful candidates. Fourth Courtyard Accessed through the Dai Thanh (Great Success) Gate, this courtyard is the complex's ceremonial center, where annual Confucian ceremonies were once held. The Bai Duong (House of Ceremonies) stands prominently with a roof adorned by dragons flanking the moon. Fifth Courtyard originally constructed in 1077 for the Imperial Academy by Emperor Ly Nhan Tong, this area was restored between 1999 and 2000 after destruction in the First Indochina War. It now hosts the Thai Hoc Courtyard, with buildings supporting cultural activities, historical exhibits, and veneration of monarchs like King Ly Thanh Tong and King Le Thanh Tong. Additionally, the temple houses a two-story Drum House, demonstrating an enormous drum and a bronze bell. The drum measures 2.01 meters in width, 2.65 meters in height, and weighs about 700 kilograms. A visit here offers a peaceful escape and a profound connection to Vietnam's scholarly past. The Temple of Literature – a timeless jewel in Hanoi.