The Khue Van Cac (the pavilion of the constellation of literature) in Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam (the Temple of Literature ) is the symbol of Hanoi, according to the Law on the Capital City, whish was approved by the National Assembly on November 21.

Prof. Dinh Xuan Lam, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam History and Science Association said the choice is suitable as the Khue Van Cac has for long time symbolised the pinnacle of intellect.

The Khue Van Cac was erected in 1805 under the reign of the Nguyen dynasty as a place for classic poetry review. “Cac” mean pavilion; “Khue” means the constellation in charge of Literature; and “Van” means the beauty or Literature.

The pavilion is a two-storey complex with layered structure, eight sloping roofs and square basement. The upper floor, made of wooden frames has its banister engraved with eight sacred objects. With four round windows facing the four directions, Khue Van Cac attracts sun lights which make it like a shining constellation.

Prof. Lam said the official symbol will help advertise the thousand-year history and culture of Thang Long-Hanoi, which has been given the title “the City for Peace” by UNESCO.

He urged Hanoi ’s authorities to protect the architectural structure from damages of nature due to its open-air location.

Ha Van Sieu, Director of Institute for Tourism Development and Research said to fully explore the value of the symbol, Hanoi should explain the cultural meaning of Khue Van Cac and create tourism products attached to the meaning. “By doing so, the Khue Van Cac will also become a cultural symbol of Vietnamese people”.