Nestled in the heart of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, the imposing Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon stands as a testament to French colonial architecture. With its expansive and airy design, both inside and out, this cathedral is not just a symbol of Saigon but also a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. For many, it tops the list of must-see attractions when visiting the city for the first time.
Key Features of Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Commonly referred to as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, its full name is the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception. Designed by the architect J. Bourard, the cathedral combines Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, featuring the main sanctuary, bell towers, and an exterior park.
Address: No. 1, Công Xã Paris, Bến Nghé Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Exploring the Architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral
1. The Sanctuary
The sanctuary’s design is particularly remarkable, capable of withstanding up to ten times the weight of the entire structure. Inside, the layout consists of a central nave, two side aisles, and two rows of chapels. The cathedral’s full length is 93 meters, with a maximum width of 35 meters, and the vaulted ceiling reaches a height of 21 meters. This design allows the sanctuary to accommodate up to 1,200 people.
2. Altars Inside the Cathedral
The altars are intricately carved from solid marble, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. A total of 56 stained-glass windows, composed of vibrant pieces, form beautiful images throughout the cathedral. All the architectural details, from the moldings to the ornate decorations, adhere to the solemn and elegant Romanesque and Gothic styles.
3. The Bell Towers
The bell towers are considered the soul of the cathedral. Originally, there were only two bell towers. In 1895, six bells, each corresponding to a different musical note (do, re, mi, sol, la, si), were installed in the towers. Architect Gardes also designed two 21-meter high spires to cover the bell towers, adding to the cathedral’s grandeur.
4. The Exterior Park
The park, located in front of the cathedral, serves as a serene space for visitors. At the center stands the statue of Our Lady of Peace, sculpted by G. Ciocchetti in 1959. The statue, carved from white Italian marble, is 4.6 meters tall and weighs 8 tons. It depicts the Virgin Mary standing with a globe in her hands, topped by a cross, her eyes gazing heavenward in a prayerful plea for peace for the people and the land of Vietnam.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is not just an iconic piece of art but also a historical witness to Saigon’s past. Since the French colonial era, it has stood tall, observing the city’s transformations and developments, as well as those of Vietnam. Every year, this site attracts millions of visitors from around the world, making it a timeless and essential stop in Ho Chi Minh City.
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