Buzz
Situated in Hai Ly commune, Hai Hau district, Hai Ly Cathedral succumbed to the impacts of climate change, resulting in its current dilapidated state. Nevertheless, Nam Dinh Cathedral with its peculiar beauty continues to attract a multitude of tourists exploring and capturing its charm.
The Allure of Nam Dinh Cathedral – Amidst the Beauty of Decay
Nam Dinh Cathedral, also known as the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was originally constructed in 1877 in Xuong Dien fishing village. The village emerged from the land reclamation efforts initiated by the people of Hai Hau district in the early 18th century.
The original construction of the cathedral was modest, covering an area of 252 square meters and roofed with thatch. However, in the early 20th century, the cathedral faced rapid coastal erosion. Consequently, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was relocated approximately 3 km from its original site.
In 1917, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus underwent its second construction phase on a larger scale, designed by a French architect and completed in 1927. The cathedral boasts a spacious campus of 9,330 square meters, measuring 47m in length and 15m in width. The bell tower stands tall at 27m, and the cross vault reaches a height of 15m, featuring ornate European-style decorative motifs.
Due to the forceful encroachment of the sea, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, along with several other churches in the area, had to move further inland and underwent its third construction phase, named the 'Church of the Holy Heart.' In 2005, Typhoon No. 7 obliterated Xuong Dien fishing village and swept away the coastal churches.
Among them, only the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus remains, preserving its bell tower, foundation, and a portion of the north wall as the surviving traces. Hence, it is still referred to as the ruined Nam Dinh Cathedral. Despite being in ruins, the church is not abandoned but has become a renowned check-in spot.
To reach the ruined Nam Dinh Cathedral from Hanoi, travelers should take National Highway 1A, turn onto National Highway 21, head to Nam Dinh City, and cross Quan Ferry to Hai Hau district. Upon reaching the district center, continue to Con Town. Here, follow the sign for Van Ly 3km, then proceed according to directional signs to reach the area of the ruined cathedral.
According to Mytour
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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour
MytourJanuary 9, 2023
