From
Hoa Lo Prison, we took a Grab ride to the Temple of Literature, which is often cited as one of Hanoi’s most picturesque tourist attractions.
Tucked behind a walled compound with five separate courtyards, the Temple of Literature was built under Ly Thanh Tong’s dynasty in 1070 to honour Confucius. It became Vietnam’s Imperial Academy shortly after, a prestigious school for top academics.
The Temple of Literature is divided into five courtyards. The first two courtyards are where scholars would relax amidst the large trees and manicured lawns. The second courtyard is easily recognisable by the Khue Van Cac pavilion. The wooden, red pavilion is built on four white stone columns and has an elaborate roof with two circular windows and a brass bell. The bell is only rung on auspicious occasions.
The third courtyard hosts the Thien Quang well, also known as Well of Heavenly Clarity, with two large halls on either side that house the treasured Stelae of Doctors. The Stelae are turtle statues, carved out of blue stone, that have the names and birthplaces of all 1307 graduates from 82 separate Royal examinations.
The fourth courtyard is called the Sage Courtyard.
It features a statue of Confucius and a house of ceremonies.
Jerlene and Javier tried out the traditional drum in the temple.
There is also a Golden Plated Ceramic Tortoise on display.
The fifth and last courtyard is Thai Hoc, where the actual academy was. It was not added until 1076 when Emperor Ly Nhan Tong ordered the construction of an imperial academy.
Within this courtyard also stands a large drum and bell tower, which were only permitted to be touched by monks.
This historic site is ranked as one of Hanoi’s most important cultural places and is steeped in Vietnamese history.
No comments:
Post a Comment