Are you looking for a place to pray in Hanoi? A place to reflect and be still? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we strongly recommend you visit St Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi.
The church has stood firm since it was built in the late 19th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam today. It is also one of the few churches that survived bombing during World War II.
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About St Joseph’s Cathedral Vietnam
History of St Joseph’s Cathedral
In 1884, construction started on St Joseph’s Cathedral with an architectural style that is said to resemble Notre Dame de Paris. The building stands on the grounds of Bao Thien Pagoda, near Hoan Kiem Lake, which was the most important, sacred, and largest pagoda for Buddhism during Vietnam’s Ly-Tran Dynasty.
Notre Dame de Paris, one of the most iconic structures in the world
Source: fr.usembassy.gov
During the French Colonial Period
When France ruled Vietnam, Catholicism was widely practiced, and St Joseph’s Cathedral was the center of Catholicism in Northern Vietnam.
After the French Colonial Period
After the French colonists stepped away from Northern Vietnam in 1954, the Cathedral was closed and taken over by the government of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. It didn’t happen until Christmas of 1990. This church is to reopen.
Architecture and Structure
Exterior
The church of Notre Dame de Paris greatly influenced the style of the cathedral in Hanoi. This highlights the combination of East and West, between Buddhism and Christianity.
The St. Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi measures 20.5m wide and 64.5m long and consists of two 31.5m bell towers divided into three parts. Both towers rise above the law central block, which is triangular with a stone crucifix at the apex.
At the hub of the square facing the church lies St. Mary of the Metal Hall, with flower baskets and palanquins adorning it and a rocky cave augmenting its scenery.
Interior
The Cathedral was built with towering glass windows and high domes, with numerous images of Jesus Christ in its vicinity.
In the central court stands a two-meter-tall statue of St. Joseph made out of terracotta. Around the figure are long, brown wooden benches set up in rows to the door. These are for Catholics to sit on during ceremonies.
What to See and Do in St Joseph’s Cathedral?
Join in on the ceremonies held at Hanoi Cathedral
This beautiful Catholic church, built over a hundred years ago, welcomes visitors to participate in the weekly masses.
Other special events like baptisms, first communions, and confirmations can also be witnessed here.
Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit in December
St Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi is a great place to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit during December. There are Christmas decorations and activities like special masses, midnight prayer services, singing Christmas carols, and a beautiful Christmas market with lots of tasty treats.
Visiting St Joseph’s Cathedral – a must-see destination!
St Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi is a must-see for anyone who wants to see the city’s classic beauty.
It is an icon of the city, so make sure you take your time to wander around and take some photos! In the area, there are also a lot of traditional art galleries where you can buy souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Enjoy the refreshing taste of lemon tea in St Joseph’s Cathedral
If you are looking for a unique way to cool off and relax, enjoying the refreshing taste of lemon tea is a good idea.
You can hang out with friends and talk for hours while sipping their delicious, freshly brewed lemon tea and taking in the beauty of the place.
Indulge in local street food near St Joseph’s Cathedral!
Explore the streets around St Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi and taste delicious specialties like spring rolls, pho noodles, sticky rice cakes, grilled meats, etc; this is also a way to get an insight into life in the local Hanoi.
Guide to visit St Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi
How to get there?
Located at the crossroads of Nha Chung Street, Ly Quoc Su Street, and Nha Xa Street, finding St. Joseph’s Cathedral in the heart of Hanoi is a breeze. You can choose from various modes of transportation, such as bus, motorcycle, or simply walking, to reach your destination.
If you take a bus, some bus routes pass through, for example, 9,14,34, and 33. The Cathedral; is situated near Hoan Kiem Lake and only requires a 5-10 minute stroll from the King Ly Thai To statue. Or freetoursinhanoi.com and other tour operators will help you find your way.
Tips on Visting St Joseph’s Cathedral
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Familiarize yourself with the cathedral’s rules and regulations beforehand.
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Make sure to dress respectfully; no revealing clothing, hats, or sunglasses are allowed.
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Be mindful of those praying and keep conversations to a minimum.
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Arrive early for a full experience – Mass is held daily at different times.
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Don’t make noise while visiting inside.
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Have a camera ready to snap pictures of the beautiful frescoes.
Opening Hours – Dress code – Entrance fee
Tourists are free to visit the area outside the Cathedral at any time.
However, exploring within the construction is limited to ceremonial practice only.
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Weekday: 5:30 a.m and 6:15 p.m
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Saturday: 6:00 p.m.
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Sunday: 5:00 am, 7:00 am, 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 4:00 pm, 6:00 pm, and 8:00pm
St Joseph’s Cathedral is the most beautiful church in Hanoi, not simply because of its aesthetics but also for its historical significance. If you have never been to St. Joseph’s, let VietnamTravelers.com bring you to this holy place.
