Location and History
Hanoi Cathedral is located on Nha Tho Street, Hoan Kiem District, about 2 km from Ho Guom. The church was built on the site of a temple of Ba Chua Ly, a deity revered by the Vietnamese. The church was started in 1886 and completed in 1890, designed by French architects after the model of Notre Dame de Paris. The church is 64.5 m long, 20.5 m wide and 31.5 m high. The bell tower is 35 m high, has 4 corners and 1 skylight. On the bell tower are 6 bronze bells, cast in France and transported to Vietnam. The church is decorated with stained glass paintings, saint statues, and beautiful patterns.
Activities and Events
Hanoi Cathedral is a place to organize prayer services, masses and religious activities of Hanoi parish. The church is also the venue for important historical events, such as the coronation of King Bao Dai in 1933, the reception of religious freedom of Vietnam in 1954, and the 100th anniversary of the church in 1990. The church is also a place to attract many tourists to visit, take photos and enjoy the peaceful and solemn atmosphere. Especially at Christmas, the church is brightly decorated, attracting thousands of people to participate in the festival and have fun.
Meaning and Value
Hanoi Cathedral is not only a unique architectural work, but also a symbol of Hanoi’s history and culture. The church witnesses the fluctuations of time, wars, ups and downs of the country and the efforts of the people. The church is also a place to preserve and promote the spiritual, moral and cultural values of the Vietnamese people. Hanoi Cathedral is a precious cultural heritage, a pride of the capital and of the nation.
Hanoi Cathedral is an attractive tourist destination, a beauty of architecture and a symbol of history and culture. When visiting Hanoi, you should not miss the opportunity to admire and explore Hanoi Cathedral, to feel the harmonious combination between the East and the West, between the past and the present, between material and spirit. Hanoi Cathedral is a memorable and lovely destination for all tourists.
