Description of the attraction
The Temple of Literature (Wang Mieu) was founded in 1070 by Emperor Li Thanh Tong and is dedicated to Confucius. It was Hanoi's first university.
The Temple of Literature consists of five courtyards separated by walls. The central path and the gates between the courtyards were intended for the king. The paths were used by civilian officials on one side and by the military on the other.
The Khue Wan Pavilion, located on the far side of the second courtyard, was built in 1802 and is a fine example of Vietnamese architecture. The third courtyard contains the well of Heavenly Clarity. Around it there are 82 stone steles, on which are carved the results of state examinations held here from 1442 to 1779, as well as biographies of those who successfully passed the exams.
The fourth courtyard leads to the ceremonial hall, the roof of which is supported by two dragons. In this room, the emperor and his mandarins offered sacrifices in front of the altar of Confucius. From here you can go to the temple sanctuary, where the statues of Confucius and his four disciples are located.
