St. Joseph's Cathedral, Hanoi

As one of the earliest Christian architectural works built in Hanoi, the Cathedral has experienced many ups and downs in the country's history, imbued with the lives and souls of many Hanoi people. The land on which the church was built was originally where Bao Thien Pagoda was located, existing since the Ly Dynasty. By the end of the 18th century, Bao Thien Pagoda was destroyed and became a small market before the first church was built. From 1884 - 1888, the Catholic Church built a brick church on the original wooden temporary church foundation. This is the largest church built in Hanoi, honored as the "Cathedral of Saint Joseph". The church was inaugurated at Christmas 1887. In 1890, Nha Chung Street was expanded and the Cathedral became a central place bustling with passersby. From Hoan Kiem Lake, following Nha Chung Street, visitors can easily find their way to the church. Standing out in the neighborhood with a large square with a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus. Visitors will have to enter the church through the side gate. Known as the oldest church and with the most beautiful architecture in Hanoi, the Cathedral has been meticulously designed by the hands of talented artisans. With European and Gothic design style, the Cathedral was built according to the motif of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The church has a length of about 65m, a width of 21m and two bell towers of nearly 32m high, fixed by large stone pillars. The exquisitely designed stone cross attracts everyone's eyes from the moment they enter. The entire floor is made from terracotta tiles, and the four sides of the wall are plastered with sandpaper, creating an ancient and extremely beautiful space. Because it is hundreds of years old, the church wall is covered with moss, creating a wild and mysterious scene. The main doorways and doors all have pointed arches, typical of the Gothic style. The large dome curves upward, creating a lofty space. The highlight in the middle is the sophisticated, round flower-shaped window. With deep colors, mainly European style, mixed with many motifs bearing Vietnamese images, making the two sides of the church's walkway attractive, attracting tourists to look and admire the unique beauty. The church is divided into 3 spaces: the reception hall - a place for the choir and musicians, the ceremony area and the sanctuary for ceremonies. Right in the cathedral are hidden three tombs of Cardinal Trinh Nhu Khue, Cardinal Pham Dinh Tung and Cardinal Trinh Van Can. In the middle is a statue of the Virgin Mary, covering the entire church scene, creating an unusually warm feeling, like a mother is opening her arms to embrace her young children. The church usually has 2 masses on weekdays and 7 masses on Sunday. On March 19 every year, the procession of the Patron Saint of the Archdiocese of Hanoi will be held here. During ceremonies, people often hear music playing along with prayers in the Cathedral. This is also where absolution sessions for the congregation take place. Like other churches, Christmas and Easter are the two biggest ceremonies at the church, often holding lavish ceremonies, crowded with Catholics to celebrate the ceremony. Not only is it a famous religious site of the capital, Hanoi Cathedral is also a destination that attracts many young people and tourists to visit and take photos. Especially at Christmas time, the Cathedral is most splendidly decorated with elaborately decorated pine trees and colorful sparkling lights. However, you will need to come early because at dusk this place is already crowded with people. When talking about the Cathedral, of course we can't help but mention the "specialty" "smooth lemon tea" here. Cups of tea scented with jasmine flowers, sprinkled with a few slices of fresh lemon with a sour, sweet, and astringent taste have become a familiar drink to many Hanoians. Just a plastic chair on the sidewalk, sipping tea, chatting with friends or watching the traffic go by. Perhaps from such simple things, Church lemon tea always retains its unique charm for Hanoi people. In addition, it would be a mistake to come to Hanoi Cathedral and not enjoy all the dishes here. From Asian and European dishes to Hanoi snacks such as grilled spring rolls, pillow cakes, fried porridge... all will be found within just a few steps around the Cathedral.

Hanoi 1754 view From January to December

Ngày cập nhật : 11/03/2023