Sunday, January 2, 2011

Good Fortune and Longevity

In the centre of bustling old Hanoi on the lake known as Hoan Kiem sits The Turtle Pagoda.
Build in 1500, the Pagoda is a shrine in honour of the turtle. Legend has it that a giant turtle in the lake aided the then Emperor Le Thai To by giving him a golden sword to fight the enemies and rescue Vietnam from the Chinese. Many believe there may still be a few giant turtles living in the lake.

Throughout Asia the turtle is a symbol of longevity and good fortune. The turtle can be found depicted in any number of locations however this little pagoda in the lake surrounded by a small swath of park may be the most famous landmark in the country recognizing the turtle.









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