The Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a cathedral located in the downtown of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Built by French colonists during the late 19th century, it is one of the city's architectural landmarks and a Catholic religious institution.
Construction of the cathedral commenced in 1863 and was completed in 1880.
It is famous for its neo-Romanesque architecture, twin bell towers, and its status as one of Vietnam's most iconic Catholic structures. It's also known for the red bricks used to build it, which were originally imported from France.
Yes, tourists can visit the cathedral and admire its architecture. Mass is held in Vietnamese and visitors are welcome to attend; however, they are expected to remain respectful of worshippers.
While there is no strict dress code, it is recommended to dress modestly out of respect for the cathedral’s religious significance. Shoulders and knees should ideally be covered.
The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid the crowds. The cathedral might be closed to tourists during mass and religious ceremonies, so it's best to check the schedule ahead of your visit.
As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, there is no entrance fee for visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. However, donations are accepted.
There are not typically official guided tours offered by the cathedral; however, visitors can join city tours that include the cathedral as one of their stops. Tour guides from these tours are usually well-informed and provide historical context.
Photography is permitted in the cathedral, but visitors should avoid using flash and be respectful during masses and services.
Nearby attractions include the Saigon Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum. The surrounding area is also filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
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