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Mang Lang Church

Mang Lang Church: Explore the oldest church in Phu Yen

20/09/2024 1.106 views

Mang Lang Church is the oldest church in Phu Yen and one of the oldest in Vietnam. Constructed in the Gothic style, it is adorned with classic decorative motifs and predominantly blue-gray hues. It is also the proud custodian of the first Vietnamese book printed in the Romanized script, authored by Father Alexandre de Rhodes.

1. The origin of the name and history of Mang Lang Church

Mang Lang Church, located on the southern bank of the Cai River in An Thach Commune, Tuy An District, Phu Yen Province, is about 2 kilometers east of Chi Thanh Town’s center. The area is historically significant, with the bustling Tien Chau Seaport nearby and An Tho Citadel serving as the provincial capital in the 19th century.

Mang Lang Church

Mang Lang Church is one of the oldest Gothic-style churches in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

The church’s roots trace back to the reign of King Le Thanh Tong in 1476 when the land was first developed. In 1629, Lord Nguyen Phuc Nguyen appointed his son-in-law, Nguyen Phuc Vinh, to govern the region. Princess Ngoc Lien, Vinh’s wife, was baptized in 1636 and began spreading Christianity, leading to the formation of the first Christian community in the area.

Construction of Mang Lang Church began in 1892 under Father Joseph Lacassagne, known locally as “Co Xuan,” and was inaugurated and blessed in 1907. The church, designed in Gothic style, was named after the Giant Crape-myrtle tree, a native species with pinkish-purple flowers that once thrived in the surrounding forest. Today, the church still preserves a round wooden table made from the trunk of this tree.

Mang Lang Church Phu Yen

Mang Lang Church was built over 15 years (Source: Collected)

2. Things to do in Mang Lang Church in Phu Yen

2.1. Marvel at the impressive Gothic architecture of the church

Mang Lang Church is a prime example of Gothic architecture, featuring twin bell towers, a central cross, and arch-shaped entrances. The church’s interior retains Gothic elements, such as stained-glass windows, while also incorporating Vietnamese touches, like the intricately carved wooden doors. The church ceiling is lined with wooden panels, no longer featuring the vaulted roof typical of Gothic architecture.

The twin bell towers right at the front

The church’s twin bell towers and intricate wooden carvings are prime examples of classic Gothic architecture (Source: Collected)

2.2. Explore the mysterious cave

Within the grounds of Mang Lang Church, there is a small, elaborately constructed underground chamber inside an artificially created hill. Inside, visitors can view carvings depicting the life of Saint Andrew of Phu Yen (1625 – 1644) and Father Alexandre de Rhodes (1593 – 1660). Notably, the cave displays the reprint of the first book printed in Vietnamese alphabet, “Phep giang tam ngay,” written by Alexandre de Rhodes, the father of the Vietnamese alphabet. Published in 1651, the book is displayed in a glass case, offering a glimpse into the early days of Vietnamese Christianity. 

small cave within the church

Visitors can explore a small cave within the church grounds (Source: Collected)

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3. Tips for a visit to Mang Lang Church

3.1. How to get there?

Mang Lang Church is located near the Cai River, approximately a 40-minute drive from Tuy Hoa City. If you are traveling by private vehicle, follow these directions:

From Hung Vuong Street in Tuy Hoa, head towards National Highway 1A. Continue straight until you reach the intersection of QL1A and Cau Lo Gom Street, then turn right onto Cau Lo Gom Street. You will see signs guiding you to the church. 

The majestic Mang Lang Church

Mang Lang Church holds historical and religious significance in Phu Yen (Source: Collected)

3.2. Best time to visit

As Mang Lang Church is an outdoor attraction, it is best to visit during sunny weather. The ideal time to explore Phu Yen and the church is between January and September.

  • January to April: The weather is cool, with little to no rain, making it the perfect time for a visit.
  • May to September: The weather can be hot, but the bright sunshine is ideal for photography.

To avoid the midday heat, visit before 8 AM or after 4 PM. If you are not attending for religious purposes, it is best to avoid weekends, especially Saturdays and Sundays, when the church is most crowded.

The grounds of Mang Lang Church

Mang Lang Church’s peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for reflection and photography (Source: Collected)

3.3. Nearby attractions

It is highly recommended that you combine your visit to Mang Lang Church with nearby attractions:

  • Yen Island (21 kilometers away): A geological wonder, Yen Island features basalt rock formations created by ancient volcanic activity. The towering basalt columns, reaching up to 70 meters, create a stunning natural landscape.
  • Da Dia Reef (10,7 kilometers away): Known for its unique hexagonal, square, and round stone columns, this natural marvel looks like a giant honeycomb by the sea. The colors of the rocks change throughout the day, offering different views at sunrise and sunset.
  • Ong Cop Wooden Bridge (10 kilometers away): This rustic wooden bridge connects the northern part of An Ninh Tay Commune with Song Cau Town. The bridge’s simplicity, combined with the surrounding serene landscape, makes it a picturesque spot for visitors.
Ong Cop Wooden Bridge

Ong Cop Wooden Bridge is a unique attraction in the serene countryside of Phu Yen (Source: Collected)

3.4. Extra notes

When visiting Mang Lang Church, consider the following tips:

  • Avoid wearing shorts or other revealing clothing to show respect for the church.
  • Be mindful of your posture and do not cross your legs while sitting in the church, as it is considered disrespectful in Christianity.
  • Keep noise to a minimum to preserve the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Help keep the church grounds clean and beautiful by disposing of trash properly.

Mang Lang Church is not just a place of worship but a journey through time, where history, culture, and religion intertwine. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or serene ambiance, a visit to Mang Lang Church promises to be a memorable experience in the heart of Phu Yen.

For those looking to extend their trip beyond Phu Yen, consider combining your visit with an exciting excursion to Nha Trang, a coastal city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant attractions. 

Located on Hon Tre Island, VinWonders Nha Trang is a must-visit amusement park offering a wide range of activities for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters and water slides to more relaxing pursuits like a visit to the aquarium or a ride on the giant Ferris wheel, VinWonders has something for everyone. 

VinWonders Nha Trang

VinWonders Nha Trang is an ideal destination for families and adventure seekers

 

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Additionally, Vinpearl Harbour Nha Trang is the gateway to a luxurious experience in Nha Trang. Whether you are taking a scenic cable car ride to VinWonders or shopping at one of the various stores, Vinpearl Harbour sets the stage for an unforgettable coastal getaway. Highlights include the exciting Stunt Show and Aquafield, Vietnam’s first Korean-standard spa and Jjimjilbang sauna complex.

Stunt Show at Vinpearl Harbour

Visitors can experience the thrilling Stunt Show at Vinpearl Harbour

For those who wish to extend their stay in Nha Trang, Vinpearl Nha Trang offers a range of luxury accommodations that cater to every traveler’s needs. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to private beaches, golf courses, and spa facilities, making it the perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

Vinpearl Luxury Nha Trang

Vinpearl Nha Trang ensures a comfortable and indulgent stay

 

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