In the list of 7 famous churches in Hanoi selected by some domestic and foreign newspapers, Hanoi Cathedral always top the list because this is one of the oldest works of the capital but still full Elegant, antique look, as well as unique features typical of architecture was once a symbol of Hanoi.
Bold features of European Gothic architecture with high walls, domes and many windows, have long Hanoi Cathedral is the ideal place that the couple often visit to take Wedding photo. With the Christian, this is probably the great hall of worship because of the vast space.
Construction began in 1886, with the architectural style described as resembling Notre Dame de Paris. The church was one of the first structures built by the French colonial government in Indochina when it opened in December 1886. It is the oldest church in Hanoi
GEOGRAPHY
The cathedral is situated west of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, in a small square within the Old Quarter. Nearby, there are restaurants and small apartment blocks. Centrally located at the end of the Nha Tho (Church) Street and the corner of Pho Nha Chung, the cathedral which is also the headquarters of Archdiocese of Vietnam has control over 480 churches and chapels, and 113 parishes, and serves 400,000 Catholics. The main gate to the cathedral is opened during mass and during the rest of time the entry is only through a side door in the compound wall of the Diocese. From this point to the cathedral is a walk to the side door and then ring a bell to enter the cathedral.ARCHITECTURE
- Exterior
Built with stone slabs and in brick with concrete facing, the façade consists of two towers, square in shape, rising to a height of 103 ft (31 m) and each tower fitted with five bells. The cathedral was built in a Gothic Revival (Neo-Gothic) style. The twin bell towers have often drawn comparisons to the ones at Notre Dame de Paris; the architects of St. Joseph's sought to emulate its Parisian counterpart. The exterior walls of the church are made of granite stone slabs. Over the years, the cathedral's exterior has become severely worn down due to heavy pollution
Interior
Windows are fitted with tall stained glass and have pointed arches. The cathedral's stained glass windows were produced in France before being transported to Vietnam. The ceiling is rib vaulted like those seen in medieval Europe. The nave is weathered and the sanctuary looks shiny and is made of gilt trimmed wood, similar to that of Phat Diem Cathedral and has royal Hue architectural embellishments. A statue of Virgin Mary is kept in palanquin according to the local custom, which is seen to the left of the nave. It is at the end of the church street which is an upscale market area with boutiques and silksIn the daytime, when walking through the huge gate, visitors will be immersed in the natural space filled with light. Light in the heart The church seems more magical when screened through the stained glass paintings on each window. Especially, tourists also have the opportunity to see the statue of St. Joseph with terracotta over 2m high in the main hall.
Adding a special attraction to the Hanoi Cathedral, associated with the "specialties" of the capital, has created a very own brand of the Ha Noi people is "tea lemon church." Church Street area has become a familiar place of Ha Noi Teen. With just a glass of iced tea, you can enjoy a sense of relaxation in a unique "space" of the capital. Accompanied by the famous street food of Hanoi such as: cottage cheese, grilled spring rolls, ...
Over the past 100 years with the ups and downs of time and the war, the Great Cathedral still exists and is a center of Catholic activity in the Capital and its vicinity. The building is considered the typical church architecture and one of the most beautiful catholic church in the capital and the country.