When visiting the heart of Hanoi, one landmark you cannot miss is the Statue of Ly Thai To. Standing proudly in Ly Thai To Garden right beside Hoan Kiem Lake, this impressive bronze monument honors Emperor Ly Thai To – the visionary ruler who founded Thang Long (ancient Hanoi) in 1010 and laid the foundation for Vietnam’s golden era.The Ly Thai To Statue is not only a beautiful photo spot but also a living history lesson that reflects the nation’s spirit of nation-building and wise leadership.
1. Who Was Emperor Ly Thai To?
Emperor Ly Thai To (974–1028), born Lý Công Uẩn, was the founder of the Ly Dynasty (1009–1225) and the first king to establish Thang Long as the capital of Dai Viet.
In 1010, he issued the famous Edict of Moving the Capital (Chiếu dời đô), relocating the capital from Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) to Thang Long. In the edict, he described the new capital as a land “in the center of the country, with the shape of a coiling dragon and sitting tiger… wide and level, high and airy, where all things prosper.”
This historic decision transformed Thang Long into a political, economic, and cultural center that has flourished for over 1,000 years and became modern Hanoi.
2. History of the Statue of Ly Thai To
The statue was built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Hanoi’s liberation and in preparation for the 1,000th anniversary of Thang Long – Hanoi.
- Construction started: August 17, 2004
- Inauguration: October 7, 2004
- Sculptor: Vi Thi Hoa
- Foundry: Đoàn Kết Fine Arts Company (Nam Dinh Province)
It is one of the largest bronze statues in Vietnam, cast as a single piece.
3. Architecture and Symbolic Meaning
The Statue of Ly Thai To stands 10.10 meters tall (symbolizing the year 1010), including a 6.8-meter statue and a 3.3-meter pedestal. The total weight is approximately 34 tons (14 tons for the statue and 20 tons for the pedestal).
Emperor Ly Thai To is depicted wearing imperial robes and a crown, with:
- His right hand holding the Edict of Moving the Capital.
- His left hand pointing toward the chosen site for the new capital.
The statue faces Hoan Kiem Lake with a dignified yet benevolent expression. The octagonal pedestal symbolizes the eight directions and features motifs of Hanoi’s ancient city gates. The three steps represent the three vital factors in his decision: heavenly timing, geographical advantage, and popular support.
4. Cultural and Historical Significance
The Statue of Ly Thai To is more than a monument – it is a symbol of national pride, wise governance, and the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people. Every year, especially during National Day (September 2) and the anniversary of Thang Long – Hanoi (October 10), locals and visitors come here to pay respect with flowers and incense.
Located in the scenic Ly Thai To Garden next to Hoan Kiem Lake, it forms part of Hanoi’s most beloved cultural landscape.
5. Visiting Guide to the Statue of Ly Thai To
- Location: Ly Thai To Garden (Vườn Hoa Lý Thái Tổ), Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Opening hours: Open 24/7 (best visited in the early morning or at sunset).
- Entrance fee: Free.
- How to get there:
- From Hanoi Old Quarter: just a 5–7 minute walk along Hoan Kiem Lake.
- From Hanoi Railway Station: about 10 minutes by taxi or on foot.
- By bus: Routes 1, 8, 9, 36 stop nearby.
Pro tips from VTOUR:
Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos. Combine your visit with a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Old Quarter for a perfect half-day itinerary.
Nearby Attractions You Should Not Miss
- Hoan Kiem Lake & Turtle Tower
- Ngoc Son Temple
- Hanoi Old Quarter (36 Streets)
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral & Trinh Cong Son Pedestrian Street
- National Museum of Vietnamese History
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