Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, is a historic landmark located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s Saigon ward. Constructed between 1877 and 1880 by French colonial administrators, the cathedral was originally called the Church of Saigon. Since 1959, it has been popularly known as Notre-Dame Cathedral, following the installation of the statue of Our Lady of Peace in its forecourt.
The cathedral features two striking bell towers, each reaching a height of 58 meters (190 feet), making it a prominent feature of the city skyline. All original building materials were imported from France, including tiles engraved with Guichard Carvin, Marseille St André France, referencing the district in Marseille where they were produced. Some tiles also bear the inscription Wang-Tai Saigon, and many have since been locally reproduced to replace those damaged over the years.
One of the cathedral’s most remarkable features is its 56 stained-glass squares, supplied by the renowned Lorin firm of Chartres, the French town famous for its 13th-century cathedral windows. The foundation of Notre-Dame Cathedral was engineered to support ten times the weight of the building, demonstrating the foresight and craftsmanship of its French architects.
Today, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon remains a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial heritage and religious devotion, attracting visitors for both its architectural grandeur and its serene, spiritual ambiance. It is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and architecture.
Contact Info:
- Phone Number: +84914122229
- Address: 01 Công trường Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam.
