Buzz
When in the Western Region, instead of visiting ancient houses or temples, why not once try to admire the 6 famous churches below, known to many tourists and believers far and wide.
6 famous churches you should visit when traveling to the Western Region
Cai Mon Church – Ben Tre
Cai Mon Church, located in Vinh Bac Hamlet, Vinh Thanh Commune, under the foot of the large Cai Mon Bridge, is one of the oldest churches in the South, built in 1872. Here, you will be amazed to see the 9-story bell tower towering 56.52m high with 6 bells cast in France.
The church today is the gathering place for most of the believers of Vinh Thanh commune and some neighboring communes. Across the church is the tomb of scholar Truong Vinh Ky, one of the 18 scholars of the 19th century.
Embrace the splendor of Cai Be Cathedral in Tien Giang Province, nestled at the picturesque confluence of the Cai Be River, commanding a view towards the vibrant Cai Be floating market.
Dating back to the early 20th century, this architectural marvel showcases Romanesque influences, constructed with reinforced concrete and steel, surrounded by a spacious and refreshing compound. The exterior boasts intricate decorations and ornate motifs adorning every detail, from the grand entrance to the smallest embellishments.
Its bell tower, adorned with multiple spires, houses four bells cast in France in 1931, employing the most advanced technology of the time.
Beneath the tower lies a water chamber designed to enhance the resonance of the bells. Within the cathedral grounds rests an upright tomb of Tran Ba Loc, the former French-appointed district chief of Cai Be, adding historical significance to the site.
Many consider Cai Be Cathedral as the epitome of architectural beauty in the Western Mekong Delta region.
Discover the tranquil elegance of Cha Diep Church in Bac Lieu, a testament to spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur.
Mặc Bắc Family Church – Vĩnh Long
Mặc Bắc Family Church stands as one of the prominent Catholic parishes in the Mekong Delta region, constructed in 1886 and completed in 1888. Spanning 24x60m with a bell tower reaching 36m high, it was considered the second-largest church in the South at the time, second only to Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.
The construction of Mặc Bắc Church was overseen by a French architect, with materials imported from France. Despite its ancient and elegant architectural style, the church has stood the test of time for nearly 130 years. Today, it remains a popular destination for tourists and worshippers alike.
My Tho Cathedral
Located on Hùng Vương Boulevard, My Tho Cathedral is the third cathedral of the My Tho diocese. Built in 1906 and completed in 1910, the cathedral stands 24m tall, over 17m wide, and 53m long, comprising a main nave and two side aisles. Its striking feature lies in its circular column architecture and captivating European-style vaulted roof.
Upon entering the cathedral, visitors are greeted with intricately designed motifs adorning each vaulted door, reminiscent of the Renaissance-era Greco-Roman architecture, brought to life within these walls.
Even after more than a century, the church exudes an undiminished sense of ancient beauty, radiating solemnity and dignity.
By Mai Nguyen (Compiled)
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References: Travel Handbook from Mytour
MytourFebruary 16, 2017
