If you are excited to explore wonderful French architecture in Vietnam but haven’t made up your mind on where to spend your time, you are advised to pay a visit to Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral - one of the biggest cathedrals in Ho Chi Minh City. You will be immersed in the perfect beauty of this classic French architecture which captivates an increasing number of visitors from every corner of the world annually. To ensure a comprehensive and insightful exploration of this architectural gem, you might consider engaging the services of a reputable travel agency in Vietnam.
Location
Located at Number 1 Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris Street, right opposite the Saigon Central Post Office- the middle of chaotic Saigon in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral is very easy to reach.
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral’s history
Representing splendid, majestic, gorgeous and magnificent beauty with long history, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral deserves to be a priceless masterpiece of Saigon architecture. During the 19th century, Catholicism – a new type of religious was introduced into Vietnam by the French colonial. As soon as the French troops occupied Gia Dinh, Saigon, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral was constructed by French authorities with a view to organizing Catholic ceremonies. Experience three reconstruction, the classic French architecture was totally completed in 1877 and today becomes one of the best French architectural constructions.
Outstanding features
Saigon Notre - Dame Cathedral has experienced 130 years more or less of political and historic upheavals, the cathedral still keeps it strong survival without being affected. Today, it preserves its original colors of an elegant structure and become the highlight spot of the modern Saigon.
Located in the middle square facing Dong Khoi Street, the church stands out the crowd for its gorgeous appreance with fresh red brick walls, no fences and adjacent premises. Moreover, the external splendor is highlighted with sparkling non-roof bell towers as well as six large bells brought in from France.
When first stepping to the church, you can catch a glimpse of the status of the Peace Virgin Mary which was situated at the garden center. The status was meticulously built with precious marble designed and constructed by the talented sculptor G. Ciocchetti in 1959. The hands of Virgin Mary keep the Globe with the Cross while her eyes look up to the sky. This image has become the symbol for wishing for peace.
The most worth mentioning attractive feature is its splendid decoration. It is a perfect combination of 56 glass windows that portrays the Bible characters, coupled with beautiful images of oriental graphics and patterns. Stepping inside the cathedral, you will be definitely amazed with gorgeously unique architecture carefully arranged with subtle lights in the interior, providing the sense of holy and solemn as well as demonstrating the exquisitely splendor beauty. Moreover, you will also be overwhelmed by a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, which is totally different from the hustling and bustling streets out there.
Things to do in Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral
Visit Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral will give you an insight into one of the most marvelous French architectural styles in Vietnam. By attending serving rituals and church ceremonies, you can have a chance to experience best things of a famous cathedral. In addition to that, it is also an ideal place for taking photos to create memorable experience. Correspondingly, there are a lot of coffee shops and shopping centers around the cathedral namely Diamond Plaza, Coffee Bean, and Vincom Plaza.
Further information
You can get into the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral between 8 am and 11 am in the morning, 3pm and 4pm in the afternoon during the weekdays. English-speaking staff is always willing to answer and provide useful knowledge involving the place. Especially, you will not be charge anything because it is free for everyone. If you have an opportunity to visit Vietnam, come here and admire a splendid Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral.
