Khue Van Cac

Unclaimed

The Temple of Literature is a cool place to visit. It’s peaceful and not too crowded. We did not get the audio tour but wished we would have in order to learn more than what you can read on the signs.

It was worth the 70k dong ticket per person - beautiful historic buildings and grounds. Information translated to English and French. It took us about an hour to go through.

**Khuê Văn Các: A Timeless Symbol of Hanoi’s Academic Heritage** Situated within the historic Văn Miếu–Quốc Tử Giám complex, Khuê Văn Các is an exquisite pavilion that stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s dedication to learning and culture. Located in the heart of Hanoi, this site was originally built in 1070 as a temple to honor Confucius and became home to Vietnam’s first national university, Quốc Tử Giám. Khuê Văn Các, constructed in 1805, remains one of the most iconic architectural highlights of this cultural treasure. The pavilion’s design is a harmonious blend of traditional Vietnamese architecture and Confucian principles. Elevated on four sturdy stone pillars, its wooden structure features intricate carvings and latticed windows resembling the sun’s rays, signifying enlightenment and knowledge. The tiled roof and red-painted wood add to its timeless beauty. Surrounded by lush gardens, serene courtyards, and ancient banyan trees, Khuê Văn Các offers a tranquil atmosphere that inspires reflection. The site also houses stone steles inscribed with the names of successful scholars from imperial examinations, emphasizing the deep respect for education in Vietnamese culture. As a UNESCO-recognized site, Khuê Văn Các is not only a historical monument but also a vibrant reminder of Vietnam’s intellectual legacy, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Hanoi.

The Khue Van Cac was built in 1805 and is one of five gates that divide the inner area of Quoc Tu Giam into five different spaces. Khue Van Cac is considered a symbol of Vietnamese culture and in 1997, Khue Van Cac was officially named the symbol of the capital of Hanoi. Designed in the traditional Vietnamese architectural style, Khue Van Cac has four square pillars with elaborate patterns on the ground floor and is open on all four sides. There are four round windows on four sides of the red attic. The roof is made up of two overlapping roofs, top and bottom. The more you look closely, the more unique and attractive Confucian architecture attracts your attention. After passing Khuê Văn Các, a large square well spreads out in front of you, and on the left and right are altars of 72 people who were once the greatest disciples of Confucius.

This arch on the passway inside the Temple of Literature is featured on the back of the 100000 Ðong banknote, and apparently, holds a very important significance in the academic realm of Hanoi.