The iconic Temple of Literature in the Vietnamese capital Hanoi is a popular attraction frequented by many visitors to the city, local tourists as well as those from overseas. Visitors to the city desiring a convenient serviced accommodation in Hanoi will find an attractive choice in the Somerset Grand Hanoi, an appealing rest offering quality accommodations and gracious hospitality.
The city of Hanoi has existed for many centuries and the Temple of Literature has stood since the early years of the city. This esteemed temple has experienced a long and turbulent history and has suffered great damage over the years, but a series of restorations has given the shrine much of its previous grandeur. Today this much admired attraction is a delightful place to visit, its lofty walls separating it from the urban bustle of the city and making it a sanctuary of calm and tranquillity.
Within the grounds of the temple the visitor will see two separate but inter-related features; namely the temple to Confucius and the former institution for the education of government officials. Both of these institutions date from the 11th century.
The temple has been arranged in the form of five distinct courtyards, interconnected by a number of pathways that run through the extent of the complex. These paths are interspersed by numerous gateways that provide entrance to the various buildings within the compound. To gain access to the main temple itself the visitor must enter the building through the principal portico.
One of the most renowned features at the complex is the splendid pavilion known as Khue Van, an iconic structure which is guarded by two prominent gateways. This pavilion in turn leads into another courtyard which features an enclosed pond guarded on either side by two imposing hallways. Exploring this much admired religious and academic highlight is sure to be a rewarding and appealing task.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.