Saint Joseph Cathedral Hanoi

Saint Joseph Cathedral (simply called “Big Cathedral” in Vietnamese) is located on Nha Chung Street near the Hoan Kiem lake. This is a roman catholic cathedral with neo- gothic which was built over 100 years ago.

In 1882, after the French army conquered Hanoi, the cathedral was constructed and completed in 1886. The cathedral were built on the land belonging to Bao Thien pagoda – an important pagoda that dates from the 12th century Ly Dynasty. Besides Western style, the main interior part is decorated in Vietnamese way with two typical colors yellow and red. Outside, in front of the cathedral is the statue of Mother Maria.

The Cathedral is always crowded with hundreds of people including both Christians and non-Christians at the weekend or during religious holidays like Christmas.

Today, taking advantage of beautiful architecture and good venue at the center of the city, the area surrounding the cathedral is always packed with hundreds of local people and tourists hanging out with friends for drinking, talking, and watching the street. Moreover, the Saint Joseph Cathedral is not only the attractive place for Christian couples hold their wedding, but also a great venue for non- religious grooms and brides to take nice wedding shots.