The Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam Scientific and Cultural Activities Center has opened the special exhibition Stone Slabs Tell Stories in the Doctoral Stele Garden within the Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam National Special Relic Site. This event not only celebrates the Lunar New Year of the Year of the Rabbit but also marks the 95th anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam’s founding (February 3, 1930 – February 3, 2025) and the 950th anniversary of the first Confucian examination (1075-2025).
Uncover Historical Value Through 82 Doctoral Steles
Building on the success of the Stone Slabs Tell Stories exhibition in 2022, this year’s event focuses on exploring the content and artistry of all 82 doctoral steles at Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam. These stone slabs are not just cultural heritage but also valuable sources of information, recounting thousands of stories about 1,304 doctors and 82 exams spanning four centuries.
Visitors exploring the "Stone Slabs Tell Stories" exhibition at Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam
Four Main Themes of the Exhibition
The Stone Slabs Tell Stories exhibition is divided into four main themes, offering a comprehensive view of the history of Confucian examinations and education in Vietnam:
- Recruiting Talents: Introduces key aspects of Confucian educational systems.
- The Examination Path: Provides information on the examination system and rewards for successful candidates.
- Role Models of the Past: Honors notable figures who made significant contributions to education and other fields.
- Artistic Brilliance: Explores the skilled hands and rich worldview of artisans who created the doctoral steles.
Unique Experience for Visitors
According to Mr. Nguyen Van Tu, Deputy Director of the Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam Cultural and Scientific Activities Center, placing the exhibition near the steles enhances visual and psychological impact, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the steles. This helps them appreciate the existing historical records and uncover hidden stories within each stone slab.
Conclusion
The Stone Slabs Tell Stories exhibition is not only an opportunity to honor the historical and cultural value of Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam but also a chance for the public to better understand the journey of Confucian examinations and the scholarly spirit of the nation. Don’t miss the chance to explore fascinating stories hidden in each stone slab at this exhibition!
Source: Dan Tri
