Miếu Công chúa

Founded in 1070 the Temple of Literature Van Mieu is a Hanoi treasure. Emperor Ly Thanh Tong built it to honor Confucius. It wasn’t just a temple though. The Imperial Academy Quoc Tu Giam Vietnam’s first national university was established within its walls in 1076. Imagine the scholars studying here. For nearly seven centuries until 1779 students learned Confucianism. They studied the Four Books and Five Classics. These texts shaped their understanding of Chinese philosophy history and culture. The students weren’t just commoners. Initially the academy educated the elite princes nobles and bureaucrats. Later talented commoners were also admitted. The Temple of Literature was more than a school. It was a place for ceremonies and exams. The Dai Viet examinations were held here. Passing these rigorous tests meant a prestigious career as a mandarin. The Temple of Literature was pivotal in shaping Vietnam’s intellectual history. The layout of the temple is similar to the temple in Qufu China Confucius’ birthplace. The expansive complex includes the Van lake Giam park and five courtyards. Each courtyard holds its own significance. The first two are quiet areas. Scholars relaxed among ancient trees and well-kept lawns. The third courtyard features the Thien Quang well. The fourth courtyard is the ceremonial heart. The Thượng Điện houses altars to Confucius and his disciples. A small museum displays student artifacts. The fifth courtyard was once the Imperial Academy. It was destroyed during the First Indochina War but later rebuilt. It now houses exhibits on Confucian education and Vietnamese culture. In 1484 Emperor Le Thanh Tong added the Doctor’s stone tablets. These stelae are inscribed with the names of successful royal exam candidates. They are on the backs of stone turtles symbols of longevity and wisdom. These turtles were once rubbed for luck. They are now protected by a fence. The Temple of Literature was featured on the back of a 100000 Vietnamese dong banknote. It’s a testament to its enduring cultural importance. Before the Tet New Year calligraphers gather outside. They write wishes in Chinese characters. These works of art are gifted or used as home decorations. The Temple of Literature Van Mieu is more than just a building. It’s a living symbol of Vietnam’s rich history and enduring legacy. It is a place where the past present and future intersect a place of learning reverence and national pride. A true Hanoi landmark.