Ly Thai To Statue & Park

Park and Statue in Hanoi

The small park, located across from the famous Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of Hanoi, is a charming and significant spot. It serves not only as a park but also as a memorial to Ly Thai To, the first king of the Ly dynasty, who relocated his seat of power to Hanoi, transforming it from a small county into Vietnam’s powerful capital.

Ly Thai To was born in 974 and rose to prominence under the patronage of a powerful monk named Van Hanh, during a time when Buddhism held great influence in Vietnamese society. Ly Thai To, leveraging his political acumen and charm, quickly advanced in his career, becoming the first commoner to lead the capital’s military forces. In 1009, following the sudden death of the reigning king, Ly Thai To, with the backing of Van Hanh and other allies, ascended to the throne without bloodshed—a rare and peaceful transition of power.

Legend has it that Ly Thai To decided to move the capital to Hanoi after seeing a cloud shaped like a flying dragon while on a river cruise. This symbolic vision led him to name the city “Thang Long,” meaning “Rising Dragon.” However, strategic reasons likely influenced his decision, as he sought a centrally connected hub for power and wealth, moving away from the mountainous, defensively advantageous old capital of Hoa Lu.

Today, the statue of Ly Thai To stands tall in the park, overlooking the eternal green of Hoan Kiem Lake. The park is a popular spot for tourists to observe daily life in Hanoi and reflect on its historical significance.

The Ly Thai To Statue & Park appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!