Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature founded in 1070, is a temple dedicated to Confucius. Today only parts of the sprawling complex dates from this earliest period; most of the architecture that we see comes from the Ly and Tran Dynasties. Also known as Van Mieu, the Temple of Literature has undergone numerous restorations and stands as one of the few remaining examples of later Ly Dynasty (1009-1225) architecture. Although there are several temples in Vietnam called Van Mieu, the one in Hanoi is certainly the most famous, as it also functioned as Vietnam’s first university and is considered one of the finest historical sites in Hanoi. The complex is within easy walking distance of Ba Dinh square.
