Con Ga Church in Da Nang is a remarkable destination, not only special for its unique architecture but also holds significant meaning, especially for Catholic visitors.
History of Formation and Development
Con Ga Church in Da Nang is located in the heart of the city, at 156 Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau District - one of the busiest streets in the tourist area of Da Nang. The parish priest is Father Phalo Maria Tran Quoc Viet, with assistants Father Baotixita Phan Dinh Luong and Father Tooma Nguyen Van Tam, alongside assistant Baoxita Ho Thai Son.
Con Ga Church, also known as the Cathedral of Da Nang or the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, is recognized as the only church built during the French colonial period in Da Nang.
Despite its remarkably beautiful and unique architecture, the construction period was relatively short, from February 1923 to September 1924. The church is named the 'Sacred Heart of Jesus'. By 1963, the diocese of the church was established, and to date, the total congregation is approximately close to 70,000 parishioners.
The unique architecture of Con Ga Church in Da Nang
Any visitor who comes to explore the church is captivated by its splendid and distinctive ancient architecture, reflecting the essence of French architecture along with the profound meanings it conveys, especially to Catholic followers. The church is built in the characteristic Gothic architecture of Western churches, with soaring lines, pointed arches, rose windows, and inside the church, there are paintings and symbols of Christ illustrated according to the scriptures, adorned in the style of Western Catholic church art.
Situated in the city center, yet the church retains its solemn and ancient charm. Inside, the church is adorned with simple yet dignified furnishings, with a vaulted ceiling soaring approximately 70 meters high, and the columns are adorned with simple yet exquisite floral motifs.
An essential part of the church is the stone cave behind it – the Mother Mary cave, built in the style of the Lourdes cave in France, exuding a serene and sacred atmosphere.
The name of the church also speaks to its uniqueness – Con Ga Church. The reason is simple, as there is a gray rooster symbol on the church roof made of lightweight hollow alloy, coated inside with a special chemical layer.
According to the explanation of the parish priest, the rooster on the church roof is not a symbol of France but a symbol of repentance, according to the Gospel: Jesus said to Peter (one of His 12 disciples): 'Truly I tell you,' Jesus answered, 'this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.'
According to local folklore, the rooster serves as a modern weather vane, indicating the weather—rain or shine—based on its directional rotation. Priests explain that due to its elevated position, 70 meters above the ground, architects designed it to rotate with the wind direction to prevent damage from gusts.
Built since the 1920s, with minimal renovations, the church has retained its ancient charm.
If you have the chance to visit Danang tourist attractions, travelers should schedule their itinerary to visit Con Ga Church in Da Nang on weekends, where they can witness and participate in solemn and festive rituals organized by the church.
Read more articles:
- Nam Son Pagoda: A Tranquil Haven Amidst the Bustling Danang
- Linh Ung Pagoda Danang: The Beauty of Compassion Embodied in the 'Buddha'
- Latest Tips for Independent Travelers in Danang