Domaine De Marie – A Heavenly Corner in the Dreamy Da Lat
As one of the three most famous churches in the City of Thousands of Flowers, Domaine De Marie is a captivating blend of Gothic architecture and the unique shapes of traditional longhouses found in the Central Highlands. Its distinctiveness makes it a must-visit tourist destination in Da Lat. Let’s delve into the fascinating features of this extraordinary church!
1. History of Domaine De Marie
Domaine De Marie in Dalat boasts a special history. Built in 1930 and later renovated in the 1940s, the church underwent a distinctive architectural transformation. Initially serving as the main convent of the Sisters of Mercy of Vinh Sơn, it expanded its purpose after 1975, contributing to various public services such as caring for orphans and providing art education to children.
The tomb of Mrs. Suzanne Humbert, located behind the church, adds historical significance. Mrs. Humbert, the wife of Governor-General Jean Decoux of French Indochina, played a crucial role in fundraising and rallying parishioners to contribute to the church’s construction. Her tragic passing at Prenn Pass while mediating conflicts between Queen Nam Phuong and Mông Diệp adds another layer to the church’s rich history.
2. Location of Domaine De Marie in Dalat
2.1. Address and Directions
Domaine De Marie sits gracefully at number 1 Ngô Quyền Street, approximately 1km southwest of Dalat’s city center. The church’s location is often referred to as the Domain of Our Lady, attracting both tourists and believers alike. Its proximity to other attractions makes it an easy addition to your itinerary.
2.2. Directions to Domaine De Marie
Due to its central location, reaching Domaine De Marie is straightforward. For those unfamiliar with Dalat’s streets, checking a map before heading out is advisable. Here are three common routes from Lam Vien Square to Domaine De Marie:
- Tran Quoc Toan => Nguyen Van Cu => Hai Thuong (the shortest route).
- Tran Quoc Toan => Le Dai Hanh => Hoa Binh Area => Hai Ba Trung Street => Hai Thuong.
- Tran Quoc Toan => go straight at the roundabout onto Ho Tung Mau => Tran Phu => Hai Thuong.
Each route offers an opportunity to see the vibrant streets of Da Lat, lined with shops, cafes, and local vendors selling fresh produce and flowers.
3. Operating Hours of Domaine De Marie
Domaine De Marie welcomes visitors throughout the day, every day of the week. However, the church’s mass hours vary:
- On weekdays, the church opens for mass at 5:00 PM.
- On Sundays, masses are held at 5:45 AM and 4:30 PM.
To avoid interfering with the church’s activities, visiting between 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM or 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM is recommended. During these hours, visitors can explore the church and its surroundings at a leisurely pace.
4. Admire the Unique Architecture of Domaine De Marie
The church’s distinctive Gothic-style architecture, combined with a roof resembling the longhouses of the Central Highlands, sets Domaine De Marie apart. The windows extending from the large roof create charming accents, and the colored glass panels on these windows, when illuminated, produce a magical and enchanting atmosphere within the church.
The front of the church has a triangular shape, with a crucifix mounted at the top of the roof. A circular rose window near the top of the roof is reminiscent of French churches from the late 17th century, adding to its historical allure.
The lower wall under the roof is built thick, and the doors are designed to be deep-set. This characteristic pattern of solid and void areas creates an impressive visual effect, making the church appear bright, airy, and imposing.
The wall is constructed in the Norman architectural style (northern France) using split stones up to the window sills. Its distinctive deep pink color makes Domaine De Marie stand out under the sunlight, exuding the solemnity of a religious structure. The church's design reflects both local cultural influences and European architectural styles, making it a symbol of the fusion of different heritages.
Inside the church, there is a 3-meter tall, 1-ton statue of Our Lady of Grace, a gift from Mrs. Suzanne Humbert. Surrounding Domaine De Marie are various flowers, grass, and trees, complementing the beautiful and unique architecture of the church, creating a harmonious and vibrant scene. Therefore, this place attracts many tourists for sightseeing and photography, not only during the tourist season but also on regular days.
5. Popular Photography Spots at Domaine De Marie
With its eye-catching pink color, Domaine De Marie makes everyone passing by want to stop and capture beautiful photos. Every corner of the church can become an ideal background for photography. Here are some popular spots for taking photos when visiting:
- The front view of the church: Capturing the full facade with its stunning architecture.
- Elevated view of the garden from above: Showcasing the vibrant flowers and lush greenery surrounding the church.
- The church grounds: The tranquil setting provides a perfect backdrop for family and couple photos.
Each of these spots offers a unique perspective, making it easy to create lasting memories through photographs. Don't forget to experiment with angles and natural lighting to enhance your pictures!
6. Things to Note When Visiting Domaine De Marie Da Lat
Domaine De Marie is not just a tourist attraction but also a sacred place. Therefore, when visiting, pay attention to the following details:
- Choose modest, elegant attire: Avoid short or revealing clothing to respect the sanctity of the place.
- Refrain from loud conversations: Maintain a respectful demeanor during religious services.
- Do not pick flowers or step on restricted areas: Help preserve the beauty of the church grounds.
- Do not litter: Maintaining cleanliness is essential for the enjoyment of all visitors.
It would be a great regret if you visit Dalat but miss the opportunity to check in at Domaine De Marie! Take the time to explore the unique beauty of this place and engage with its rich history and architecture.
7. Conclusion
Domaine De Marie is a captivating destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful place to reflect, this church provides an enchanting atmosphere that is hard to resist. Make sure to include Domaine De Marie in your Da Lat itinerary, and take the time to appreciate the beauty and serenity it has to offer.
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