Notre Dame Cathedral

Set at the literal heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Notre Dame Cathedral is a solid reminder of the colonial years of Vietnam. It is a stark diversion in a land brimming with Buddhist sanctuaries. Still, the cathedral blends in with the dazzling skyline of Saigon and lures visitors in with its sublime appearance. It was designed as a smaller counterpart of Notre-Dame de Paris, and every inch of material was brought from France to make it ‘as French as possible.’ Today, it doesn’t lack any of its 19th-century charms, continuing to be a center of Vietnam’s Catholic community.

For fresh onlookers, the cathedral is impressive as an epitome of Romanesque Revival architecture. It attracts attention with its bright pink facade and two exquisite bell towers. Even the six bronze bells inside were brought from France. The bell towers were later additions, enhancing the magnificence of the structure even more. International additions continued to add to its beauty in the following years. The elegant statue of the Lady of Our Peace joined the cathedral’s collection in 2005 after its journey all the way from Italy. At the heart of the Paris Commune Square, the Italian marble welcomes visitors and spreads a message of peace for Vietnam. You will witness locals and visitors putting prayers in the silver box at the foot of the statue. 

Notre Dame gained the spotlight when the statue of the Virgin Mary allegedly shed a single tear. The tear left a mark on her right cheek, drawing hundreds of visitors each day from across the country. Years after the trace diminished, the statue still remains at the center of attention. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral yourself, and get a taste of its charismatic beauty first hand. The countless stories surrounding the site will keep you company meanwhile.