St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi is not only a prominent religious symbol but also a beautiful check-in spot in the capital. Here, visitors can explore a centuries-old architectural masterpiece along with its historical marks that have been associated with Hanoi through generations. Let’s check in and discover this unique tourist attraction – Hanoi’s Cathedral in the article below!
1. Where is St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi?
Address: 40 Nha Chung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 08:00 – 11:00, 14:00 – 20:00
– Sunday: 07:00 – 11:00, 15:00 – 21:00
Mass times:
– Monday to Saturday: 5:30, 18:00 (Saturday), 18:15
– Sunday: 05:00, 07:00, 09:00, 11:00, 16:00, 18:00, 20:00
Officially named the Cathedral of St. Joseph, it can be said that St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi is the oldest church in the capital. The cathedral was built in 1884 and inaugurated on Christmas Day 1887, marking the introduction of Christianity into Vietnam at that time.
Through ups and downs and the fluctuations of time, St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi remains, becoming a ‘historical witness’ observing the changes of this land. Today, the cathedral attracts many worshippers visiting the capital and has become a monument that leaves a strong impression with its ancient Gothic architecture in the heart of the Old Quarter.
2. Means of Transportation to St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi
As a famous sightseeing monument in the capital, you can easily reach St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi using various means of transportation, such as taxi, motorbike, or bus. Alternatively, you can take a stroll through the Old Quarter and then visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral to attend a mass and pray.
If you go by bus, you can choose routes 09, 14, or 36 to the Hoan Kiem Lake area, then walk along Hang Trong Street, turn left onto Nha Tho Street, and go straight for a while to get there.
Alternatively, you can get to Trieu Quoc Dat Street via bus route 01, then walk to Phu Doan Street, turn right onto Au Trieu, and you will arrive at St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
You can also take bus 02 to Tràng Thi Street, then turn right onto Phu Doan Street, and walk a bit further, turn onto Au Trieu, and you will see St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
3. History of St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi
St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi was built on the site of the Bao Thien Pagoda, an ancient temple from the Ly Dynasty. By the 18th century, the temple was heavily damaged, and its ruins became a marketplace for local people at that time. Later, St. Joseph’s Cathedral was authorized to be built on the same ground.
In 1884, Bishop Puginier designed and began the construction of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, which was inaugurated on Christmas in 1887. Initially, the church was built temporarily with wood, and after a major renovation, it was constructed with solid bricks and concrete plaster as it stands today.
Often likened to a miniature version of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi has become an iconic image of the Old Quarter, attracting many visitors.
4. Explore the Architecture of St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi
Rightfully deserving the title of the most beautifully constructed church in Hanoi, this cathedral was built in the classic Gothic architecture, modeled after Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The highlights of St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi are the towers, the symmetrical layout, and the architectural features commonly seen in European landmarks.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral is 64.5 meters long, with a bell tower standing at 31.5 meters, secured by large stone columns. Moreover, when mentioning St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi, people immediately think of the statue of the Virgin Mary holding the Baby Jesus, intricately carved from stone, positioned right in front. The flooring is laid with terracotta tiles, and the walls are plastered with paper, adding a nostalgic touch to the space.
Meanwhile, the main entrance and the windows are designed in the pointed arch shape characteristic of Gothic architecture. The high, curved roof, accentuated by round decorative windows, further embellishes the impressive space of St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi.
The entire St. Joseph’s Cathedral complex is divided into three distinct areas: the reception hall, the sanctuary, and the worship area. Immediately within the sanctuary lies the resting place of three Cardinals: Cardinal Trịnh Văn Căn, Cardinal Trịnh Như Khuê, and Cardinal Phạm Đình Tụng.
In the center of the sanctuary is the statue of Saint Joseph holding the Baby Jesus, with two altars of the Virgin Mary and several saintly statues placed respectfully on either side.
5. What can you do when visiting Hanoi Cathedral?
5.1 Attend Mass at Hanoi Cathedral
For those who follow the Catholic faith, attending Mass at Hanoi Cathedral undoubtedly holds significant meaning. Alternatively, if you are not of the faith, participating in the Mass will give you a better understanding of the ceremony’s rituals, while listening to hymns and offering prayers can also be a wonderful experience.
5.2 Take check-in photos in front of the cathedral
Photos taken in front of Hanoi Cathedral have become a sign for people that you have just explored the capital. So, if you have the chance to visit this sacred place, don’t miss the opportunity to ‘join the trend’! The majestic appearance of the cathedral, covered in moss, will surely provide a perfect backdrop for your photo.
5.3 Enjoy the ‘specialty’ lemon tea at the cathedral
It is unclear when lemon tea or fragrant coffee became the ‘specialty’ in front of Hanoi Cathedral. If you visit here in the afternoon or late evening, you will easily see groups of friends chatting cheerfully everywhere.
With its majestic architectural beauty and profound religious significance, the St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi has become a cultural symbol and a prominent destination in the heart of the capital. For those who want to explore and understand more about the beauty of the land and people of the thousand-year cultured capital, the cathedral is definitely a must-visit destination.
