The oldest and possibly the finest architectural complex in Hanoi, Van Mieu or Temple of Literature, was established in 1070, during the Ly Dynasty (1009 - 1225). ounded in honor of the Chinese philosopher Confucius,
it served as a center for higher learning, educating future mandarins for more than seven centuries. The temple was modeled on the original Temple of Confucius in the Chinese city of Qufu, and consists of five courtyards, the first two of which feature well-tended lawns. Each courtyard is separated by walls and ornamental gateways, and a central pathway through the complex divides it into two symmetrical halves.
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Temple of Literature