Temple of Literature
Viet Nam's first University
Founded in 1070

Originally only young men of noble blood were allowed to attend
'However in 1442 a different approach was taken and gifted students from all over the nation
headed to Hanoi to study Confucianism, literature and poetry' (Lonely planet website)
In 1484 the Emperor ordered 'stele' be erected to record the names of the most gifted students.

Welcome to the One Pillar Pagoda
Originally built in 1049 by the Emperor Ly Thai Tong
who ruled from 1028 to 1054
The original structure was destroyed by the French in 1954 right
before giving up political power

Built of wood, it was designed to resemble a
Lotus blossom.
 This one was rebuilt by the new government

When I searched Google for the name of this flower I used "fuzzy red flower...?"
And the winner is...Dwarf Bottle Brush

Ruffled Hibiscus
I've not seen this color combination before

Bauhinia Blakeana
From the family of Hong Kong Orchids

Some of the garden features near the end of the grounds,
included this petrified tree stump... 

and...this carved smooth stone

The Stilt House from across the pond

Main floor of the Stilt house
Kitchen table/Conference room

While at the kitchen table having his morning tea, Ho Chi Minh
could sit and watch this lovely scene...or so I imagine

His library

and office

The Stilt House built for Ho Chi Minh on the Presidential grounds
Used during his revolutionary life when Vietnam
 achieved independence in 1954
Died 1969 September 9th

Living room & kitchen

Court yard

Koi pond trail to the Stilt House

Strangling Fig tree roots
They sucker under ground & form new trees

Servant's quaters / Ho Chi Minh's home as he declined to live in
the overtly luxurious palace

Garage used for Ho Chi Minh's cars

This car was given by the Soviet Union in 1954
and used to serve President Ho Chi Minh

If you want to read more about this man and his history go to: www.britannica.com
Ho Chi Minh/president of North Vietnam/Briannica.com