Story: Huong Quynh
Photos: Thu Phan, Nguyen Hai, Dao Canh

When Christmas approaches, Catholic churches across Vietnam glow with light and devotion. Their graceful domes, tall bell towers, and stained-glass windows tell a story of faith and culture shaped over time. Heritage Magazine invites you to visit four basilicas that define the Catholic landscape of Vietnam.

For over 140 years, Notre Dame Cathedral has been one of Saigon’s most iconic buildings

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon – a timeless landmark

Among Ho Chi Minh City’s many landmarks, few carry the same architectural and historical weight as Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. Standing at 1 Cong xa Paris Street, the cathedral blends past and present into a structure symbolic of Saigon. Designed by French architect Jules Bourard, construction took place from 1877 to 1880. With a length of 91 meters, a width of 35.5 meters, and twin bell towers rising nearly 57 meters high, the cathedral anchors the city center.

In 1962, the Vatican granted it the title of Basilica, recognizing its religious and historical significance. More than 140 years later, the cathedral’s red brick facade remains bright, which is rare for a century-old building in a tropical climate. This enduring hue enhances the charm of Ho Chi Minh City and strengthens the cathedral’s iconic presence.

Heavily damaged by warfare, the bell tower of La Vang’s old church remains upright – a symbol of faith and endurance

La Vang – centuries of devotion

For Vietnam’s Catholics, La Vang – located in Hai Lang District, Quang Tri Province – is the country’s most sacred pilgrimage site, where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared to believers in 1798. In 1961, the Vatican officially raised La Vang to the rank of Basilica. At the center of the sacred grounds stands the old church, completed in 1928 in a Western architectural style. Though heavily damaged during wartime, its brick bell tower remains upright and has become a defining symbol of La Vang.

In 2012, construction began on a new Basilica, one of the Catholic Church’s largest projects in Vietnam. Every year, thousands flock here for the Kieu Procession on August 15, and every three years, a major pilgrimage known as Dai hoi La Vang draws crowds from across the country.

So Kien Basilica is built in a Gothic style with Asian details

A touch of Europe in Ninh Binh

Located in Chau Son Ward, Ninh Binh Province, the So Kien Basilica (often called Ke So Church) is often described as “a slice of Europe” in northern Vietnam. Construction started in 1877, and the church was inaugurated in 1883.

Its Gothic architecture, accented with Asian elements, features two massive bell towers, four large bells cast in France, gilded altars, and detailed carvings. Tall trees surround the church, creating a solemn, contemplative atmosphere.

In 2010, the Vatican conferred the title of Minor Basilica on So Kien, recognizing its cultural and architectural importance as well as its central role in Catholic life in Vietnam.

Built in an imposing French Gothic style, Phu Nhai Basilica was completed in 1933

Phu Nhai Basilica – a symbol of faith

Situated in Xuan Hung Commune, Ninh Binh Province, Phu Nhai Church forms the heart of the Bui Chu Diocese. Completed in 1933 and renovated several times, it was designated a Minor Basilica by the Vatican in 2008.

The church combines a French Gothic design with local elements. It stretches nearly 80 meters in length, with twin towers over 40 meters tall and four bells imported from France. The largest bell weighs two tons and is only rung on major feast days. Inside, statues of saints stand on traditional Vietnamese lacquered palanquins. The grounds contain many sculptures depicting biblical stories. Striking and solemn, Phu Nhai Basilica is both a symbol of Catholic faith and an architectural and cultural landmark in the Red River Delta.