THE "STONE STELES OF ACHIEVEMENT" EXHIBITION

The permanent exhibition "Stone Steles of Achievement" is built on the idea that each doctoral stele at Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam is a chronicle written in stone, reflecting the history of Vietnam's imperial examination system. The exhibition introduces the value of the doctoral stele system within the flow of the nation's history.

The content of the exhibition helps highlight many core values: from the strategic vision of the monarchs in seeking out, training, and making use of talented people; to the challenging journey of the examination path, which required perseverance and sustained effort from the candidates; as well as the spirit of self-cultivation and the aspiration to serve shown by the scholars after passing the exams and being honored on the golden list. Having one's name carved on a stone stele became a special form of commemoration, helping the reputation of these talented individuals be passed down through many generations.

In addition, the exhibition also integrates interactive elements, allowing visitors to actively learn about the doctoral laureates, explore the content of the stele inscriptions, and access the historical and cultural value of the heritage in a visual and engaging way.

The establishment of the doctoral steles under Le Thanh Tong in 1484 is considered an initiative ahead of its time. Before that, the names of scholars were mainly recorded in the book "Dang Khoa Luc" – a paper-based form of record-keeping that could easily be lost over time. Once carved into stone, this information was "made eternal," contributing to the sustainable preservation of historical memory.

Not only to honor and encourage a spirit of learning, each stele also serves as a profound reminder to the scholars of their responsibility to serve the nation and its people. It is this that has created the lasting value of the doctoral steles, allowing these "stone chronicles" to continue spreading their meaning across many generations.

The "Stone Steles of Achievement" exhibition has contributed to preserving and promoting the value of this heritage, awakening pride in the tradition of valuing education, and fostering a sense of respect for knowledge and a spirit of contribution in society today. Through it, the values of the past continue to illuminate the present and guide the future.