Vietnam academic traditions highlighted through historic temples

Vietnam’s long-standing academic traditions and commitment to meritocracy are exemplified by the historic Temple of Literature sites in Hanoi and Bac Ninh.

In Hanoi, the Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam, established in 1076 under the Ly Dynasty, served as the nation’s first public university. It played a central role in training intellectuals for state administration, education, and culture throughout the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties. The institution is noted for fostering values of studiousness and respect for educators through the imperial examination system.

Similarly, the Temple of Literature in Bac Ninh preserves the regional academic heritage of northern Vietnam. Originally built during the Le So dynasty and later moved to its current location in 1893, the site is dedicated to Confucius and prominent Confucian thinkers. A significant feature of the Bac Ninh site is the collection of 12 stone stelae, recognized as National Treasures in 2020, which record the names and achievements of high-ranking scholars from the Kinh Bac region.