Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is one of the prominent historical symbols of Ho Chi Minh City. With its unique French architecture, the basilica not only attracts visitors with its exterior beauty but also holds many stories and cultural values. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica before you set foot here.
Where is Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon?
The Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, officially named the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, is located at Paris Commune Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The basilica holds Mass at the following times:
Weekdays:
Morning: 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM
Evening: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Sundays:
- 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM
- 6:45 AM – 7:45 AM
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM (English Mass)
- 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Entrance to the basilica is free, but visitors should be aware that there is a parking fee outside the church.
The Storied Past of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon has a history of over 140 years and is a cultural and religious symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. Built in the 19th century after the French occupied Saigon, the basilica has undergone many significant development phases. Initially, the French constructed a church on Ngo Duc Ke Street to serve the Catholic congregation. However, the first church was too small, so in 1863, the second church was started on the banks of the Charner Canal. The wooden church was completed in 1865 and was called the Saigon Church. Later, the wooden church was damaged by termites, leading the Governor of Cochinchina to decide to hold a design competition for a new church in 1876.
The new construction began on October 7, 1877, and was completed in 1880, designed and supervised by architect J. Bourad. The consecration and inauguration of the church took place on April 11, 1880, with the presence of Governor Le Myre de Vilers. Initially, this structure was called the “State Church” because it was built and managed by the French government, with a total cost of 2,500,000 French francs.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is an architectural masterpiece with exterior walls made of red bricks from Toulouse, France. The two bell towers rise to 57.6 meters and house six bronze bells, along with the statue of Saint Pigneau de Behaine. Since 1959, after the statue of Our Lady of Peace was placed on the stone pedestal in front of the church, it has been renamed “Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica.” The basilica is not only a unique architectural structure but also an important site in the history and religion of Vietnam, representing the intersection of French culture and Catholicism in Vietnam’s history.
Must-See Highlights When Going to Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
When you arrive at Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, there are many interesting things waiting for you to explore. From its unique architecture to the surrounding space, you are sure to have memorable experiences.
Renovation of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon has undergone several renovation phases to maintain and upgrade its architecture and facilities. Initially, the basilica had two flat-roofed towers that were 37 meters high, resembling the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. This similarity raised questions about design copying and the lack of distinctive architectural features. Therefore, in 1895, 15 years after its completion, the basilica was renovated according to the design of architect Fernand Gardes. Two pointed bell towers were added to the flat-roofed towers, each 20 meters high, along with a 3.5-meter high cross. As a result, the height of the towers and bell towers reached 60.5 meters, making the basilica the tallest architectural structure at that time.
After more than 135 years of existence, many parts of the basilica have deteriorated significantly and require repairs. Therefore, on July 1, 2017, a major renovation of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon began and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The Art Behind the Structure of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is designed in the Neo-Romanesque architectural style. This style, which emerged in the mid-19th century, is inspired by Roman architecture from the 11th and 12th centuries. Buildings in this style tend to feature many arches and simpler windows compared to other historical structures. During construction, all materials such as cement, steel, and screws were imported from France. The exterior of the building is made of bricks produced in Marseille, left exposed without plaster, free from moss, and retains its bright pink color. The cathedral has a total of 56 stained glass windows, produced by Lorin from the province of Chartres, France.
French Architectural Legacy in Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, with over a century of construction and renovation history, proudly stands as one of the architectural landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City. Built in the 19th century, the basilica utilizes entirely imported materials from France, including cement, steel, tiles, and screws, creating a classic architectural charm.
The architecture of the basilica is a delicate blend of Roman and Gothic styles, featuring impressive dimensions: 91 meters in length, 35.5 meters in width, and a vaulted ceiling height of 21 meters. The two bell towers rise to 36.6 meters, and when including the spires added in 1885, the total height of the bell towers reaches 57.6 meters. With no fences or walls surrounding it, the basilica harmoniously connects with the surrounding space, complemented by a vibrant flower garden and the statue of Our Lady of Peace made from rare marble.
Inside the basilica, the architecture showcases symmetry and a blend of Roman and Gothic styles. The nave stretches 93 meters in length, with a maximum width of 35 meters and a vaulted ceiling height of 21 meters, creating a magnificent space that can accommodate up to 1,200 people. The basilica is illuminated by 56 stained glass windows, including 31 rose windows and 25 round windows, producing a beautiful and ethereal light effect. Inside, there are two rows of rectangular columns, each adorned with six statues representing the 12 Apostles. The main altar is made of solid marble, featuring six angels standing beneath it. Every architectural detail, from the murals to the marble altar, reflects meticulous craftsmanship and elegance.
Timeless Bell Towers
When exploring the basilica, visitors are often captivated by the bell towers, which are considered the heart of the church. Originally, the structure had two bell towers that rose to 36.6 meters and lacked roofs. In 1895, the basilica underwent an enhancement with the addition of two spires to cover the bell towers, elevating their height to 21 meters. This modification resulted in a total height of 57 meters for the bell towers. Furthermore, the structure features six bells, each producing unique musical notes (do, re, mi, sol, la, si), suspended from the two towers. Each bell is intricately designed, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of the basilica.
Saigon’s Iconic Clock
In addition to its significant architectural value, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon houses many unique artifacts, including a massive clock with a mechanism weighing over 1 ton. This clock’s mechanism is located above the organ loft, positioned between the two bell towers. The size of the clock mechanism is comparable to that of a large wardrobe, measuring approximately 2.5 meters in height, 3 meters in length, and over 1 meter in width. From this mechanism, a steel shaft connects to the large clock situated outside the basilica. Behind the mechanism, there is a smaller clock that helps adjust and verify the accuracy of the larger clock.
The Lively Square by Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Directly in front of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is the expansive Paris Commune Square. This square is always bustling with activity, attracting many locals and tourists who come to enjoy the atmosphere and take photos. Therefore, when visiting the basilica, be sure to take a moment to stop at the square and appreciate the vibrant “picture” of urban life.
What to Do Around the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
In addition to visiting the basilica, the surrounding area offers a variety of exciting activities for you to explore.
Walking around Nguyen Van Binh Book Street
Stretching approximately 100 meters, the street is lined with small bookstores, each about 4 meters wide, offering a diverse selection of books across multiple genres, including fiction, non-fiction, travel, and comics. The books here are reasonably priced, making it an accessible destination for readers of all ages.
Visitors can find comfortable seating areas along the street, providing the perfect spot to relax with a book in hand. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with passionate readers and literary enthusiasts, creates a unique cultural experience, making Nguyen Van Binh Book Street an unmissable stop in Ho Chi Minh City.
Shipping a Cup of Coffee around Notre Dame Cathedral (Cà phê bệt)
In addition to the beautiful cafes in Saigon, the street coffee experience at Notre-Dame Basilica offers a unique opportunity. These simple coffee stalls provide a valuable view and a spacious outdoor setting. You can take a break at one of the coffee spots near the basilica, savor a fragrant cup of coffee, admire the stunning architecture, and watch the vibrant life around you.
Feeding the Pigeons – Scattering crumbs, gathering moments
Try Street Food Near Notre Dame
Wondering what to eat while visiting Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon? You can explore a world of delicious street food in Alley 84 Nguyen Du. This alley is home to many eateries and street vendors offering a variety of famous dishes at reasonable prices. Here are some tasty street food suggestions for a delightful snacking experience:
- Mini pancakes (Banh Can)
- Fish cake noodle soup (Bánh canh chả cá)
- Crab soup ( Sup Cua)
- Fried rice flour cake ( Bot Chien)
- Spring rolls, dried beef salad
- Mixed rice paper (Banh trang tron)
Slow Rides, Rich Views Exploring Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon by Cyclo
One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon and its surroundings is by taking a cyclo ride. Sitting in a cyclo, you will have the chance to slowly admire the city’s beauty and experience the simple rhythms of local life. Don’t forget to capture memorable moments during your journey!
Visiting Museums That Tell Saigon’s Story
If you are interested in exploring history and culture, you cannot miss the museums located near Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica. Here, you will discover fascinating stories and gain deeper insights into the formation and development of the city.
Ho Chi Minh City Museum
Located about 600 meters from Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum was established in 1885 and is an impressive building. The museum features a wide array of photographs, images, and artworks made from various materials and artistic styles. Beneath the museum is a network of bunkers and corridors that connect to the Reunification Palace. You can find many military artifacts, including a jet used by South Vietnamese pilots to bomb the palace.
- Address: 65 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
- Entrance Fee: 30,000 VND (approximately $1.25) per person
Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts
The Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts began construction in 1987 and officially opened in 1991. This museum focuses on art and culture, showcasing numerous works by both Vietnamese and international artists. It is an ideal place to explore contemporary and traditional art.
- Address: 97A Phó Đức Chính, Nguyễn Thái Bình, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Entrance Fee:
- Adults: ~$1.20 (30,000 VND)
- Students (with valid ID): ~$0.60 (15,000 VND)
- Children under 6 & seniors over 60: Free
War Remnants Museum
Just a 10-minute walk from Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, the War Remnants Museum was established in 1975 and displays many photographs from the Vietnam War (1954 – 1975) from both the American and North Vietnamese perspectives. You can observe the “tiger cages” used to detain political prisoners. Visiting this museum is a valuable way to learn more about Vietnam’s history and the harsh realities of war.
- Address: 28 Võ Văn Tần, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Entrance Fee:
- Adults: 40,000 VND ( $1.75);
- Children aged 6 – 15: 20,000 ($0.88);
- Children under 6: Free
Vietnam History Museum
This museum is dedicated to collecting and displaying valuable historical and cultural artifacts from Vietnam, ranging from the era of the Hùng Kings to modern times. The museum building features Indochinese architecture, creating a picturesque atmosphere. The corridors, lush green lawns, and classic details contribute to a beautiful setting. Inside, you will explore diverse exhibits about Vietnam’s history and culture, as well as neighboring cultures such as the Cham. Through artifacts and detailed descriptions, you will gain a better understanding of the country’s development and culture.
- Address: 2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Đa Kao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Entrance Fee:
- Adults: 30,000 VND (approximately $1.50 USD)
- Students and children (ages 6 to 16): 15,000 VND
- Seniors (Vietnamese citizens aged 60 and above): 15,000 VND
- Children under 6 years old: Free
How to Get There?
Reaching Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is quite easy, with several transportation options available.
Public Transportation
Buses are a popular choice for those looking to save on costs. Routes 120, 30, 36, and D1 are suitable options that can take you close to the basilica. You can use the BusMap app to find the most convenient route and check real-time schedules. Simply wait at an official bus stop, board the right bus, and enjoy a budget-friendly ride. A single journey costs approximately 6,000 VND.
Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services
If you prefer a more comfortable and quicker mode of transportation, you can book a taxi through ride-hailing apps like Bee, Grab, or Xanh SM. Among the many options, Xanh SM is an excellent choice, offering a seamless travel experience. This electric taxi service is a leading provider in Vietnam, offering everything from standard to premium taxi services.
Walking from Nearby Attractions
If you are near other tourist spots, such as the Central Post Office, walking to Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica is a great idea. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll while exploring the beautiful streets and soaking in the fresh air and vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Join Cycling Tours in Ho Chi Minh City
For a more immersive experience, consider joining a cycling tour to explore Ho Chi Minh City. Our tours often include stops at major landmarks like Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, the War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market, around District 4, District 10, Chinatown, and more. Cycling allows you to discover hidden gems, navigate charming alleyways, and experience the city’s dynamic energy up close. Many guided tours provide rental bikes and safety gear, making it an enjoyable and convenient way to explore the area.
Explore Vietnam Cycling Tour in Ho Chi Minh with Jackfruit Adventure
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is not only a unique architectural landmark but also a place rich in historical and cultural significance. When you visit, you will have the opportunity to explore exciting activities in the surrounding area. Prepare yourself for a memorable experience at Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica!
If you want a more unique experience, consider joining a cycling tour in Ho Chi Minh City. Jackfruit Adventure offers various exciting tours that allow you to discover the city from a different perspective. Cycling through the bustling streets, you will easily appreciate the beauty and vibrancy of Saigon.
