Xich Dang Temple of Literature

Xich Dang Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple located in Lam Son Ward, Hung Yen City, Hung Yen Province, Vietnam. Built in 1832 during the Nguyen Dynasty under Emperor Minh Mang, it is one of the oldest surviving Van Mieu in Vietnam after the Temple of Literature in Hanoi. The complex honors Confucius, Chu Van An and distinguished local scholars, featuring traditional Vietnamese architecture, courtyards, stone steles and worship halls.

Visitors can expect a tranquil, traditional Vietnamese temple complex set in central Hung Yen City. The site includes a triple-arched entrance gate, two main courtyards, worship halls dedicated to Confucius and Chu Van An, nine preserved stone steles recording examinations and scholars, altars, incense offerings, ancient trees and landscaped gardens. The architecture features curved tiled roofs, wooden pillars and calligraphy. Visitors can walk through courtyards, view steles and statues, and learn about Confucian education heritage.

Xich Dang Temple of Literature was constructed in 1832 during the 13th year of Emperor Minh Mang of the Nguyen Dynasty. It was built to honor Confucius and to promote Confucian education in the former Son Nam region. It is considered the second oldest Van Mieu in Vietnam after Hanoi. The complex preserves nine stone steles erected to record the names and achievements of successful doctoral laureates and scholars from the region, reflecting Hung Yen's long tradition of learning.

The temple is a significant Confucian cultural site dedicated to Confucius and Chu Van An, a revered Vietnamese teacher and Confucian scholar. It symbolizes respect for learning and scholarship in Vietnamese culture and serves as a place for ceremonies honoring teachers and scholars, especially during traditional festivals and graduation seasons. It is part of the Pho Hien cultural-historical complex.