Temple of Literature in Hanoi, is a historic complex, built in 1070 during the Ly dynasty. As Vietnam’s first national university, the Temple of Literature honors Confucius and the sages and scholars of Confucian teaching. What makes this temple truly unique is its collection of 82 stone stelae placed on turtle statues. That record the names and accomplishments of some of Vietnam’s most successful scholars between the years 1442 to 1779. These stelae provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich educational history.
A Center of Learning for Over 900 Years
The Temple of Literature was constructed on the site of an older temple called the Temple of Confucius. Emperor Ly Thanh Tong wanted to build the country’s first university to promote the teachings of Confucianism, which emphasizes ethics, morality, justice, and effective governance. For over 900 years, the temple operated as Vietnam’s national university, educating the elite scholars, nobles, and royalty of the nation. Even today, the Temple of Literature remains an important symbol of academic achievement in Vietnamese culture.
Many of Vietnam’s most prestigious scholars and philosophers once studied in the temple’s classrooms and pavilions. For centuries, students would come from all over the country with the hopes of passing rigorous entrance exams to study at the temple.
The Stone Stelae Honor Confucian Scholars
A defining feature of the Temple of Literature complex is its collection of 82 stone stelae, erected on stone turtle statues. These stelae record the names, birthplaces, and accomplishments of some of Vietnam’s most exceptional scholars between 1442-1779, many of whom graduated as doctorates from the imperial academy located there.
The stelae were made out of stone to represent the stability and longevity of learning. Placing them on stone turtles signified endurance, as turtles live long lives. The earliest stelae were grouped in the third courtyard behind the temple, recognizing distinguished Confucian scholars and placing their achievements on record for future generations.
As one walks through the various courtyards, the names etched onto these weathered stones represent many generations of elite intellectuals who influenced Vietnamese society. They include administrators, historians, philosophers, military strategists, and men of letters who achieved academic excellence after decades of study. Several stelae have images carved into them showing scholars in scholarly pursuits such as writing books or using ink brushes.
The stone stelae are treasures that give modern visitors a glimpse of Vietnam’s rich academic past and the importance Vietnamese culture placed on intellectual pursuits. The names etched onto their surfaces immortalized the scholars for their academic achievements.
Unique Architectural Complex With Five Courtyards
Built on a unique east-west orientation, the temple has five courtyards lined along a central axis. Each courtyard would have served a different function, with various pavilions, halls, and gates. Many of the buildings feature traditional architecture with sloping tiled roofs embellished with Chinese characters in calligraphy. Some structures show Taoist influences blended with Vietnamese motifs.
The first two entrance courtyards provided a grand ceremonial entrance into the temple complex. In the third courtyard was the Imperial Academy, a key focal point where scholars would prepare for their examinations. The fourth courtyard contained the Thien Quang well, which provided water to the whole temple. While the last courtyard housed the altar where ceremonies honoring Confucius.
While much of the wooden architecture has faded away over past centuries, the stone turtle stelae remain along with several reconstructed structures. Many original features such as stone roof decorations in the shape of flowers and dragons can still be seen today. Together, these elements create a tranquil environment where ancient Eastern architecture blends flawlessly with a lush natural landscape.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2010, the Temple of Literature was under recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its undisputed significance. as Vietnam’s historical center of learning and knowledge. As the dedication stone in front of the temple states, it honors “the men of talent and virtue.”
The temple continues to celebrate Vietnam’s high regard for education. Many university graduates return here after graduation and newlyweds come to take wedding photos. The temple also hosts calligraphy workshops and summer camps. On certain holidays, university students in traditional gowns lead guided tours and ceremonies take place reenacting ancient rituals honoring Confucius. Travellers who prefer a slower pace can also reach the temple gates on our Free Tour of Hanoi, which winds through the surrounding lanes on foot.
