Exploring the Memorial Site of Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc
Officially recognized as a national historical and cultural site, the Memorial Site of Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc - Trang Nguyen being the highest academic title in Vietnam’s traditional imperial examination system - stands as a testament to Hai Phong’s long-standing tradition of learning and academic excellence.
A Distinguished Scholar in Vietnam’s History
The national historical and cultural relic in commemoration of Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc is located at the foot of Mount Tau in Le Ich Moc Ward.
According to historical records, Le Ich Moc was born in 1458 in Thanh Lang Village, Thuy Duong District, Kinh Mon Prefecture of the former Hai Duong region, now part of Le Ich Moc Ward in Hai Phong City. From an early age, he was known for his intelligence, diligence, and strong passion for learning, earning widespread respect within his community.
In the spring of 1502, during the reign of King Le Hien Tong, the imperial court organized a national examination. In that examination, Le Ich Moc ranked first and was awarded Trang Nguyen—the highest academic title in Vietnam’s traditional imperial examination system. He was the first Trang Nguyen from the former Hai Phong region.
At the age of 44, he entered the imperial bureaucracy when the Le dynasty was experiencing profound social tensions. Then he returned to his hometown.
In 1527, when the Mac dynasty replaced the Le dynasty and Mac Dang Dung proclaimed himself emperor, the new court, admiring the talent and virtue of Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc, appointed him Ta Thi Lang. However, amid internal conflicts within the Mac court, he soon chose once again to return home.
Upholding the Tradition of Learning
Back in his hometown, Le Ich Moc opened a school, encouraged the locals to value education, work diligently, and live in unity and harmony. Through his influence, Dien Phuc Pagoda became a center for training scholars in the region.
Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc passed away in 1538, at the age of 80. He was buried in a local ironwood forest. In 1993, the Memorial Site of Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc was officially recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism as a National Historical and Cultural relic. Over the years, local residents have mobilized social resources to restore the memorial site.
Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc stands as a shining example of dedication to learning and commitment to serving the nation for future generations. Each year, on the February 15 according to the lunar calendar, the death anniversary of Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc, local residents of the former Thuy Nguyen District organize an early spring calligraphy-opening ceremony. The event draws large numbers of visitors from across the country. This event not only commemorates Trang Nguyen Le Ich Moc, but also continues to spread the tradition of learning to young generations.
Hai Phong News