Turtle Tower Hoàn Kiếm Lake

The Hoàn Kiếm turtle, a revered symbol in Vietnam, is deeply connected to the legend of Kim Quy, the Golden Turtle God, and Hoàn Kiếm Lake in Hanoi. The legend tells of the turtle gifting a magic sword to Le Loi, a Vietnamese leader, which helped him defeat Chinese invaders. After the victory, the turtle reclaimed the sword in the lake. This turtle, also known as the Golden Turtle, is seen as a symbol of Vietnam's independence and longevity. The last known individual, called Cu Rua, died in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of myth and reverence.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Legend of Kim Quy:
The turtle, often associated with the deity Kim Quy, is a central figure in Vietnamese mythology.
Hoàn Kiếm Lake:
This lake in Hanoi is the legendary home of the Golden Turtle and the site where the magic sword was returned.
Cu Rua:
The last known Yangtze softshell turtle in the lake was affectionately nicknamed Cu Rua, meaning "Great Grandfather Turtle".
Symbol of Independence:
The turtle and its legend are powerful symbols of Vietnamese independence and resilience against foreign invaders.
Worship and Reverence:
The turtle was revered by many and considered a sacred creature.
Taxidermied Specimen:
After Cu Rua's death, its remains were preserved and are displayed in Ngoc Son Temple on an island in Hoan Kiem Lake.
Species Decline:
The Yangtze giant softshell turtle, to which Cu Rua belonged, is critically endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and hunting.
Hope for the Future:
Despite the decline, there's ongoing research and conservation efforts to understand and protect this unique species, with potential for further discoveries.Read more