Wondering what the two towering red-brick spires are that pierce the skyline in Ho Chi Minh City? Yes, then you have spotted Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon. One of the oldest as well as the tallest buildings of the city is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh.
Included in your Vietnam tour packages, officially known as the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. Built between 1877 and 1880 by the French, it showcases stunning neo-Romanesque architecture with its signature red-brick façade, twin bell towers, and stained-glass windows. You will be amazed to know that its material was especially imported from France.
In this blog, we will discuss everything related to the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon. So whether you are a history buff or not, the details of this place will for sure fascinate you. What are you waiting for? Let’s start!
The history of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is much more than just a story. Standing tall in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is more than a church. It's a living relic of Vietnam's French colonial era. With its red-brick charm and solemn bells, it quietly echoes stories of faith, empire, and resilience.
Here’s how its story unfolded:
- 1877–1880: Construction began under French architect J. Bourard, using materials imported from France, including the iconic red bricks from Marseille.
- Originally called the "State Church", it symbolised colonial power and European architectural grandeur.
- 1962: The cathedral was elevated to a basilica by Pope John XXIII, gaining its official name: Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon (also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception).
- Over time, it became a major religious and historical landmark, especially during the Vietnam War, when it served as a gathering point and refuge.
- Today, it remains one of the most visited places in the city and a key stop for anyone exploring the history of Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh City construction.
