Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most striking and unusual sights in Vietnam. An alternative name is the Cathedral‑Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Cathedral of Our Lady of Saigon or Notre Dame de Saigon. The building was built under the influence of French church architecture of the 19th century.
History
French colonial rule in Vietnam took place in 1858-1954. Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City was built during colonial rule. Construction work began in 1877 and was completed in 1880. Architect Jules Bourat worked on the project. He wanted to create a smaller replica of Notre Dame Cathedral.
Many materials, such as red bricks and stained glass windows, were imported from France, which allowed us to reproduce the true European style. At first, the temple was called the Saigon Church. In 1895, two bell towers were added to the building. The name "Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City" appeared in 1959, after Bishop Joseph Pham Van Tien commissioned a granite statue of Our Lady of Peace in Rome. It was installed in front of the cathedral on an empty pedestal. The status of the basilica was obtained in 1960.
Description
Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City is considered one of the largest in Asia. To this day, it has been preserved almost in its original appearance and interior. It combines neo-Romanesque style with massive forms and Gothic elements, which are characterized by ribbed vaults and pointed arches.
Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City is 93 meters long, 35 meters wide, and 21 meters high. The foundation is able to withstand a weight ten times the mass of the structure. The building looks spectacular, so wedding photo shoots are often held against its background. There is no excess luxury inside. The altar, decorated with figures of angels, is made of monolithic white marble. 56 stained glass windows, which were made by a company from France, attract a lot of attention. It depicts biblical scenes and saints, and the sunlight passing through them creates a special atmosphere in the interior.
How to get
Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City is not just a religious site, but also a symbol of Vietnam's history. This is an example of how Western architecture can be combined with Asian culture. Divine services are held regularly in this cathedral, admission is free, but at certain hours. Access may be restricted during the restoration period.
You can get there by public transport. Buses will do № 4, 18, 30, 31, 36, 93, 120, Express routes E1, E2. If it is more convenient to travel by metro, take Line 1 (Benthan - Suoityen) and get off at Opera House Station, which is a 5–minute walk from Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City.
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