In Phú Yên, there's a place steeped in significant historical events, often sought after during national holidays, gradually becoming a 'fresh' attraction for tourists – Bác Hồ Church, located amidst the lush greenery of Vân Hòa plateau. Let's explore this landmark with Vntrip!
1. Where is Bác Hồ Church located?
Bác Hồ Church is currently situated in Bình Hòa hamlet, Sơn Định commune, on the Vân Hòa plateau, Sơn Hòa district, Tuy Hòa city. To reach here, follow National Highway 1A heading North for 14 km to Hòa Đa hamlet, then turn left onto DT 643 road, proceeding West for 32 km.
Path leading to Bác Hồ Church. Image: Hoàng Linh Hà
Vân Hòa plateau is home to countless mountains. Image: Hoàng Linh Hà
This 32km stretch will take you along the Vân Hòa plateau, where mountains, streams, and primeval forests reside, offering cool air, clear skies, and incredibly enticing landscapes. It's dubbed the 'Dalat of Phú Yên'. You'll pass through sugarcane fields, cornfields, pepper fields, or lush mangrove forests, alongside numerous other serene and picturesque scenes.
Lush green scenery on the way to Bác Hồ Church. Image: nikpignguyen
2. What makes Bác Hồ Church special?
Bác Hồ Church stands as a historical monument intertwined with the years of resistance against the American invasion and for national salvation in Phú Yên. It was here, on September 9, 1969, after receiving the news of President Hồ Chí Minh's passing, that the Provincial Party Committee of Phú Yên, along with officials and people from various ethnic groups in the Sơn Hòa base area, erected a church and solemnly held a memorial service for President Hồ Chí Minh, expressing the boundless grief of the people of Phú Yên towards their beloved leader.
The entrance gate of Bác Hồ Church. Image: Hoàng Linh Hà
During its initial construction phase, temporary building materials such as forest trees and thatched roofs were used, resulting in significant damage over time. Every year, soldiers and civilians had to carry out repairs. By 2003, Bác Hồ Church was solidly constructed, occupying an airy space of over 1,500 m2, consisting of various sections, including a museum displaying artifacts, a guest reception area, commemorative plaques inscribed with the historical and cultural values of the monument, and a cultural and recreational activities area. Bác Hồ Church features traditional architecture deeply imbued with Vietnamese soul, characterized by the stilt house structure – a prevalent type of dwelling among the Ê-đê ethnic minority living in the Vân Hòa plateau, combined with the pillar-and-tile roof style typical of the Kinh ethnic architecture, harmonizing with the green backdrop of trees, grass, and mountains, creating an exceptionally beautiful architectural ensemble.
Panoramic view of the front facade of Bác Hồ Church. Image: Đinh Hiếu Nhi
Architectural style reminiscent of stilt houses – a common type of dwelling among the Ê-đê ethnic minority. Image: Hoàng Linh Hà
Surrounding Bác Hồ Church is a 2-hectare area planted with various types of forest trees and fruit trees, forming part of the Bác's Gratitude Garden project initiated by young people from Phú Yên, as an expression of gratitude towards President Hồ Chí Minh. Specifically, the Gratitude Garden comprises approximately 1,500 fruit trees, mainly jackfruit, pomelo, and soursop. Additionally, towering pine and hybrid oil trees provide shade, offering a place for visitors to rest. This area also serves as a venue for the Provincial Party Committee, the provincial government of Phú Yên, and numerous social organizations to visit, pay respects, and offer incense on the occasion of Bác's birthday and major holidays throughout the year.
Rear view of Bác Hồ Church. Image: Hoàng Linh Hà
3. Refreshment Stand Across from Bác Hồ Church
Across from Bác Hồ Church sits a small refreshment stand nestled amidst the valley, amidst the sky and mountains. After a long journey and exploring the church, you'll surely need to recharge your energy to continue your trip. So, don't forget to stop by the small refreshment stand and take a moment to rest.
The refreshment stand across from Bác Hồ Church. Image: Đinh Hiếu Nhi
The refreshment stand amidst the sky and mountains. Image: Hoàng Linh Hà
Moreover, if you're part of the 'living for the gram' team, then this cute little swing at the refreshment stand is definitely a 'fancy backdrop' for you. The swing is hung on a tall and sturdy ancient tree amidst lush greenery. Oh, they also serve group meals here, but you need to make a reservation in advance.
The Instagrammable swing. Image: Hoàng Linh Hà
This swing makes for a super 'fancy' photo op. Image: Đinh Hiếu Nhi
If you ever get the chance to visit the land of 'golden flowers on green grass', why not venture to the western mountains, head to the Vân Hòa plateau, and seek out Bác Hồ Church. Not only to admire the majestic and romantic beauty of nature but also to feel the gratitude and love towards the great leader of the people of Phú Yên.
