Buzz
Ho Chi Minh City is renowned as a vibrant and colorful city with numerous entertainment options. If you have the chance to visit Saigon, you cannot miss Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral - one of the city's most exceptional architectural landmarks named after Uncle Ho.
Architectural imagery of Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral
Unraveling the history behind the creation of Notre-Dame Cathedral
After seizing Saigon in 1859, the French swiftly established a church for Catholic worship. Following numerous renovations, Admiral Duperre organized a design competition for the new church. Among many submissions, architect J. Bourard's design, blending Roman architecture with Gothic art, was selected.
Romanesque architecture mixed with Gothic art style
Once the design was chosen, construction of the church officially commenced in 1877, with architect J. Bourard directly supervising the project. All construction materials such as cement, iron, steel, etc., were imported from France. After 3 years, the project was completed, costing approximately 2,500,000 francs according to the exchange rate of the time.
The ancient architectural style of Notre-Dame Cathedral
The unique architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral
The majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral is situated right in the city center at 1 Cong Xa Paris Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Admire the architectural marvel from above
Today, Notre-Dame Cathedral stands as one of the most unique architectural landmarks in Saigon, not only attracting millions of tourists from both domestic and international destinations for sightseeing and attending Mass but also serving as a gathering place for vibrant youth.
The architecture of churches has always been a beautiful photo spot for many people
Despite 130 years of political and historical upheavals, Notre-Dame Cathedral still stands strong, seemingly unaffected by time. With dimensions of 91 x 35.5 meters and a height of 21 meters, it stands out in the urban space without fences or barriers, truly making it a focal point of the city.
Originally without sharp pinnacles on its two bell towers, they were added in 1894 according to architect Gardes' plan, reaching a height of 57 meters. In 1920, a 3.5-meter tall, 2-meter wide cross was placed on each bell tower. The total height of the cathedral from the ground to the pinnacle is 60.5 meters. The bell towers house 6 bells with a total weight of 25,850 kilograms, the heaviest in Indochina at the time.
The bell tower architecture features 6 bells
The interior of the cathedral is designed with a central nave, two side aisles, followed by two rows of prayer halls. It can accommodate around 1,200 people, with two main rectangular columns totaling 12, symbolizing the 12 apostles. Behind the main columns are corridors with over 20 altars featuring delicate white stone statues of saints. The cathedral's lighting system is electrically designed, with sunlight streaming through stained glass windows and ventilation holes during the day.
The interior architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh City
The cathedral's architecture creates a fantastic lighting effect within the interior, evoking a sense of serenity and solemnity. The mystical light highlights the architectural details and interior furnishings, making them more prominent and enchanting.
The architectural details and interior furnishings inside the cathedral
Above the main entrance is the organ loft housing the oldest pipe organ in Vietnam. The handcrafted organ is no longer in use due to woodworm damage to the keyboard control panel.
The organ loft houses the oldest pipe organ in Vietnam
In the park in front of the cathedral stands a statue of Our Lady of Peace, sculpted in Italy and transported to Saigon in 1959 by sea. The 4.6-meter-tall, 5.8-ton statue, made of white marble, remains unpolished, retaining its raw appearance.
With its unique architecture and possession of rare artifacts
The unique architecture coupled with priceless antiques makes Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon an indispensable destination for travelers far and wide. This cathedral is truly an architectural masterpiece with a strong European style, a tranquil corner amidst the bustling Saigon.
