Hanoi celebrates 597th anniversary of King Le Thai To’s coronation
The Nhap Tich or Naturalization Ceremony, a ritual traditionally held on the day of the King's coronation, was re-enacted, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors to the capital.
THE HANOI TIMES — The commemorative ceremony of the 597th anniversary of the coronation of King Le Thai To (1428 - 2025) was held on May 11 at Nam Huong Communal House, Le Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
Together with the statue of King Le and Hoan Kiem Lake, Nam Huong Community House forms a tourist cluster of cultural and historical significance on the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake. Photo: Duy Khanh/ The Hanoi Times
The event reflects Vietnam's rich historical traditions while promoting long-standing cultural values. The ceremony also highlights the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of the King Le Thai To Memorial Site, which is closely tied to the heritage of Thang Long - Hanoi.
Vietnamese history records the early 15th century as a time of great hardship when the nation endured the brutal rule of the Ming Dynasty of China. In response to the national crisis, Le Loi, driven by noble ideals and fervent patriotism, led a determined resistance. He raised an army and began a decade-long rebellion (1418-1428). Eventually, Le Loi and his forces triumphed, driving out the Ming invaders, declaring peace and securing the nation's independence.
On the 15th day of the fourth lunar month in 1428, Le Loi ascended the throne, taking the royal title of Thuan Thien and renaming the country Dai Viet. His reign laid the foundation for a prosperous nation, shaping the destiny of generations to come.
Nestled on the scenic shores of Hoan Kiem Lake, the King Le Thai To Memorial Site and the Nam Huong Communal House form a revered complex of historical and cultural relics honoring King Le Thai To and other ancestors. In 1995, the site was officially recognized as a national historical site.
The annual Coronation of King Le Thai To celebration not only honors King Le's legacy, but also celebrates the cultural and historical richness of Hanoi's Old Quarter, the enduring significance of Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake, and the vibrant creative culture of the nearby pedestrian areas.
For generations, the thousand-year-old Nam Huong Communal House and King Le Thai To Memorial Site are sacred spaces for cultural and spiritual gatherings for the people of Hanoi. Photo: Duy Khanh/ The Hanoi Times
Every year, King Le's coronation ceremony is re-enacted at this site to commemorate his legacy and inspire pride in the generations who continue to preserve Vietnam's heritage. Photo: Cong Tho/The Hanoi Times
This year’s reenactment of the Naturalization Ceremony commemorates the 597th anniversary of King Le Thai To’s coronation (1428 - 2025).
Local officials and community members gather to pay tribute to one of the nation's most revered heroes.
The ceremony is conducted with utmost solemnity.
The crowning of King Le Thai To is revered and admired as a momentous occasion that will always be remembered in the country's history.
