Cua Bac Church is a must-see landmark in Hanoi (Collected)
1. Overview of Cua Bac Church
- Address: No. 56, Phan Dinh Phung Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
- Cua Bac Church mass schedule:
- Weekdays: 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 5:30 AM; 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM; 8:30 AM (children’s mass); 10:30 AM (English); 7:00 PM
The official name of Cua Bac Church is the Church of Our Lady of the Martyrs, reflecting the belief that Mary is the Queen of all Saints. Over time, it became commonly known as the Church of Our Lady of Hanoi. Due to its proximity to the North Gate (Cua Bac) of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the locals also refer to it as Cua Bac Church.
This church is not only one of the most beautiful churches in Hanoi but also a favorite destination for Christmas celebrations. In recent years, the Goethe Institute and the German Embassy have chosen it as the venue for cultural activities on Christmas, such as symphony concerts and vibrant markets.
Surrounded by embassies and government offices, Cua Bac Church often welcomes foreign worshippers. In November 2006, the church hosted a significant joint meeting of Vietnamese Catholics and Protestants. This notable event, held on the morning of November 19, was attended by US President George W. Bush and his wife Laura Bush, who were in the country for an official visit during APEC Vietnam 2006.
Cua Bac Church’s Christmas celebrations draw visitors from all over (Collected)
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2. History of Cua Bac Church
Cua Bac Church in Hanoi was constructed between 1925 and 1930, when Apostolic Vicar Pierre Marie Gendreau was in charge of the diocese and Father Joseph – Antoine Dépaulis was in charge of the parish.
Originally, the church was intended to be named the Church of the Vietnamese Martyrs. However, since the Catholic martyrs in Vietnam had only been beatified and not yet canonized at that time, the Holy See requested that the name be changed to the Church of Our Lady of the Martyrs.
Cua Bac Church was built as a tribute and a reminder of the six beatified individuals who were martyred in Hanoi, especially Father Théophane Vénard, who was martyred outside the North Gate in 1861.
3. The special features in the architecture of Cua Bac Church
3.1. The harmonious fusion of Asian and European styles
Cua Bac Church in Hanoi beautifully blends traditional Eastern architectural elements with classic Catholic decorations, harmoniously integrating the natural landscape. This fusion of European and Vietnamese styles makes it a standout example of architectural synthesis.
The church features a large rectangular space with two rows of parallel columns, divided into a small reception area and a grander area for services. A large transitional area beneath the dome connects these spaces, with the saint worship area on the right and the priest’s reception room on the left. The interior is entirely in the European-church style, designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard, who created an asymmetrical space with a tall bell tower beside the main hall.
The tiled roof extends seamlessly from the bell tower through the dome to the main and auxiliary spaces, resembling traditional Vietnamese temples and pagodas. The windows and ventilation systems are designed to block sunlight and prevent rain, with the large decorative windows fitted with light-filtering glass.
Cua Bac Church is a blend between traditional Vietnamese elements and French architecture (Collected)
3.2. Large, green grounds
Additionally, Cua Bac Church has a spacious garden with many trees. Upon entering the courtyard, visitors will feel as though they have escaped the noisy, bustling streets of Hanoi. Sitting under the green canopies, feeding the pigeons, and listening to the ringing bells brings a true sense of peace and serenity.
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4. Essential tips for visiting Cua Bac Church
4.1. How to get there?
To reach Cua Bac Church, you can use various means of transport such as motorbikes, buses, or taxis.
- By motorbike: From Hoan Kiem Lake, make your way to Trang Thi Street. Go straight to Dien Bien Phu Street, then turn right onto Hoang Dieu Street. Go to the intersection between Hoang Dieu Street and Phan Dinh Phung Street, where Cua Bac Church is just around the corner.
- By bus: You can take the bus no. 16, 34, 46, 86, or 90, which have stops near the church.
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4.2. Best time to visit
The best time to visit the church is in the fall, when the church is bathed in the gentle sunlight of the season. Another popular time is during Christmas, as the church is one of the most beautifully decorated places in Hanoi on the holiday. It is best to visit Cua Bac Church in Hanoi in early morning or late afternoon, when the sunlight is mild.
The best time to visit Cua Bac Church is in the fall (Collected)
4.3. What to note?
If you want to see the interior of the church, come a little before or after mass. The church is only open during mass, and as it is a sacred place, it is not recommended to use your phone or take photos during the service.
Cua Bac Church stands as a remarkable testament to both historical and architectural beauty in Hanoi. Its unique styles, along with its significant historical background, make it a standout attraction in the city. Whether you are admiring its stunning design or participating in its mass, the church will offer a memorable visit.
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