Previous   Next
Home » Images » 0032 Pictures From History » CPA0015736

Vietnam: Aerial photograph of Ho Hoan Kiem, the 'Lake of the Restored Sword', c. 1950

Vietnam: Aerial photograph of Ho Hoan Kiem, the 'Lake of the Restored Sword', c. 1950

Hoan Kiem Lake (Vietnamese: Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, meaning 'Lake of the Returned Sword', also known as Hồ Gươm - Sword Lake) is a lake in the historical center of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. The lake is one of the major scenic spots in the city and serves as a focal point for its public life.

According to legend, emperor Lê Lợi handed a magic sword called Heaven's Will which brought him victory in his revolt against the Chinese Ming Dynasty back to the Golden Turtle God (Kim Qui) in the lake and hence gave it its present name (the lake was formerly known as Luc Thuy meaning 'Green Water'). The Turtle Tower (Thap Rùa) standing on a small island near the centre of lake is linked to the legend.

Quick links to other images in this gallery: