The ribbon-cutting and art performance officially opened the exhibition
The Temple of Literature is one of Hanoi’s iconic historical sites. Nearly 1,000 years ago, it served as Vietnam’s premier educational institution under the monarchy, a place where talented individuals were discovered and trained to serve the country. They contributed their talents to society, bringing peace and prosperity to the people. Over time, the Temple of Literature has become a symbol of Vietnam’s tradition of academic excellence, respect for teachers, and appreciation for talent. Today, it continues to honor outstanding students and inspires young generations with knowledge and moral integrity.
Delegates visiting the Exhibition
Distilled from thousands of documents, the exhibition chronicles the formation and development of the Temple of Literature and introduces cultural figures who made significant contributions to this “Temple of Knowledge.” Visitors are taken on a journey back in time, immersing themselves in the scholarly and cultural ambiance of the Temple of Literature across the historical periods of Dai Viet through four main themes. “Temple of Knowledge” conveys the Temple of Literature as the heart of Vietnamese education, highlighting contributions by eminent cultural figures. “Nurturing Talent” showcases the teaching and learning activities at the Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first national university. “The Journey of the Imperial Examination” recalls the rigorous study and training of past scholars, from their first brushstrokes to the honor of being inscribed on the “golden board.” Lastly, “The Stone Steles of Names” emphasizes the historical, cultural, and artistic value of the 82 doctor laureate steles at the Temple of Literature, which UNESCO recognized as a World Documentary Heritage.
Students visiting the Exhibition
Within the exhibition space, enthusiasts of Vietnamese culture can experience this heritage firsthand, with rubbings of the decorative patterns from the 82 doctor steles preserved at the Temple of Literature Special National Heritage Site. These rubbings use natural materials, from woodblock prints to do paper, sourced entirely from nature.
Dr. Le Xuan Kieu, Director of the Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities at the Temple of Literature, delivers the opening speech
In his opening remarks, Dr. Le Xuan Kieu, Director of the Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities at the Temple of Literature, shared: “Through this exhibition, we aim to give the people of Can Tho, especially the younger audience, a comprehensive view of a unique national heritage site in the heart of Hanoi. We hope to deepen their appreciation for the cultural legacy of their ancestors and for the nation’s tradition of academic excellence, inspiring them to contribute to a prosperous future.”
Mr. Truong Cong Quoc Viet, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Can Tho, also remarked on the exhibition’s profound significance, as it offers the people of Can Tho a chance to understand the national values of academic dedication and respect for teachers. He noted that it also strengthens the connection between Hanoi and Can Tho – the center of the Mekong Delta region.
Mr. Truong Cong Quoc Viet, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Can Tho, speaks at the opening ceremony
“I hope that in the future, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Can Tho, the Department of Culture and Sports of Hanoi, the Can Tho Museum, and the Temple of Literature’s Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities will collaborate in meaningful cultural exchanges, fostering the cultural heritage potential and tourism development of both cities,” added Mr. Truong Cong Quoc Viet.
Students participate in experiential activities at the Exhibition
The “Special National Heritage Site: the Temple of Literature” exhibition will run from October 18 to December 18, 2024, at the Hung Kings’ Temple (Lac Long Quan Street, Binh Thuy Ward, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City).
Thuy Nga