"Temple of Literature (Van Mieu)" Top 5 Page for this destination Hanoi Travelogue by bpacker

The Temple of Literature is one of the few remaining buildings from the original city founded by Emperor Ly Thanth Tong in the 11th century and is a well-preserved example of Vietnamese architecture. Join me as I venture into the many courtyards.

Entrance

Entrance gate as seen from the outside, the gate bears the words "Van Mieu Mon" (Disciple of Temple of Literature).

Entrance

Under the gate, there are two stone dragons bearing the style of the Le So Dynasty.

Khuc Van Cac pavilion as seen from the opposite side, from the Thien Quang Tinh pond

In the third courtyard is a pond, the Well of Heavenly Clarity, and beside it are 82 stone stelae, mounted on tortoises and engraved with the names of successful graduates

Dai Thanh (Great Success) Gate, which leads into the temple precinct

Courtyard of the temple and the Bai Duong (House of Ceremonies)

double dragon incense pot

There is also a temple dedicated to Confucius and an altar where the king and his mandarins would make sacrifices.