DAI THANH GATE

Dai Thanh (Great Synthesis) Gate reflects the architectural style of the Later Le Dynasty (15th–17th centuries). The gate consists of three compartments, with front and rear veranda columns and a central row of pillars supporting the ridge beam. Each compartment is fitted with red-lacquered double wooden doors adorned with dragon-and-cloud motifs, symbolising the nation's prosperity and its reverence for learning and education.

Above the central compartment hangs a horizontal lacquered board inscribed with the three Chinese characters "Dai Thanh Mon" (Đai Thanh Gate). On the right side is the smaller inscription: "Respectfully erected in the eighth lunar month of the autumn season, in the year Canh Tuat, the second year of the Than Vu reign under Emperor Ly Thanh Tong" (1070). On the left side is the inscription: "Major restoration carried out in the eleventh lunar month of the year Mau Ty, the third year of the Đong Khanh reign" (1888). This horizontal board, therefore, serves as an important historical document confirming that Van Mieu was established in 1070.

To the right and left of Đai thanh Gate are two smaller gates named Kim Thanh (Golden Sound) and Ngoc Chan (Jade Vibration), leading into the Quoc Tu Giam area. The names symbolise the beginning and ending of ceremonial music performance: the sound of the bell (Kim Thanh) marks the opening, while the sound of the jade (Ngoc Chan) signifies the conclusion. The bell's sound also represents the beginning of rhythmic order and musical harmony.

The name "Đai Thanh" originates from a famous remark by Mencius in praise of Confucius: "Confucius was the one who achieved Great Synthesis." This means that Confucius embodied and integrated the complete wisdom and virtues of the former sages and worthies.