Overview of Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
Downtown of Ho chi minh city is the home to this architectural wonder created by French architects during 1863 and 1880. It is located near many other tourist attractions of the downtown such as Ben Thanh market, independence palace and Central post office of Saigon. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is an unmissable place in the city because of its architecture, history and importance in Vietnam. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is officially known as Basilica of our lady of the immaculate conception. This church has the important of being the mother church of Archdiocese and due to the chair of Archbishop of the city.
In 1962, this church got the basilica title due to its importance in the Vietnamese catholic community. The stunning building has stained glass windows with stories from the Bible. There is a real pipe organ in the church that is considered as the king of the instruments. However, it is replaced by an electronic pipe organ because it is broken and cannot be played.
The statue in the ground of the church was made by Italian Sculptor G. Ciocchetto in 1959. It is the marble statue of Mary, Queen of peace. It is a stunning place to visit.
Things to do at Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
There are a lot of interesting things to do in this fantastic building. You can observe the stunning architecture, interior and exterior of the building. Along with the religious look, the church was created to show the influence of Christianity and French civilization in the city. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica was one of the most beautiful French buildings of its time. Complete material of the building was imported from France including the red bricks which are used on the outer walls of the church. Their bright red color is still the same. There are two bell towers of 60.5m each and 6 bronze bells which were added in 1895.
The front ground of cathedral has a Virgin Mary statue. It is said that this statue shed tears in 2005 and thousands of people stopped to see that. Many locals and foreign visitors stop at the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica to pay respects and seek calmness. They use candle lights to pray under the Mary statue. Notre Dame cathedral basilica looks very beautiful in the day time due to that there are a lot of people who visit to click photos and videos especially for wedding photoshoot.
Accommodation (budget moderate and luxury) near Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is located in one of the main locations of the city so there are a lot of accommodation options near it. Some of them are:
- Dai Nam Sai Gon Hotel
This hotel is the best budget option that offers free Wi-Fi in all rooms. It is located near many attractions in the District 1. You can easily access many locations including Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica by walk. This hotel also provides access to massage, steam room and restaurant.
- Meander Saigon
You can enjoy an amazing stay in this place filled with many facilities. Air conditioning, Free Wi-fi is available in all the rooms, luggage storage, laundry and many other services.
- Hotel des Arts Saigon
This elegant hotel is located in the city center. Rooms have relaxing and warm atmosphere with floor to ceiling windows, free Wi-Fi, minibars, coffee makers, mini refrigerator, flat screen TV and much more. There are two restaurants, two bars, outdoor rooftop pool, gym, spa and tennis court.
Places to eat
- Italiani’s Pizza
After strolling in the beautiful streets you can enjoy many Italian dishes including wood fired pizza. Restaurant has a very welcoming environment. All ingredients like, vegetables, cheese and herbs are from local sellers and farmers. It also has vegetarian and vegan options.
- Phin & Bean Roastery
This place is famous for its unique Vietnamese coffee. They source the beans from the local farmers. It also has food menu with vegan options. You can enjoy delicious food and snacks with Vietnamese coffee.
- Propaganda Bistro
Propaganda Bistro is known for its amazing flavors, fresh spring rolls, crunchy rice bowls, noodle salad and many other foods. Menu also contains home baked bread, homemade tofu, ice cream, soy milk and other homemade things. You can enjoy delicious drinks with the food.
Airport info
Tan Son Nhat international airport is used for the domestic and international flights of Ho Chi Minh city. The airport is located near many tourist attractions.
Transportation
Buses are easily available from different parts of the city to Notre Dame cathedral. Taxi is also available from Ho Chi Minh city center to Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. Taxi rent is $3 or $4 and time it takes is 4 minutes because the basilica is very close to the city center.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is an amazing place to visit with beautiful architecture, interior and rich history. It is located near many wonderful attractions, food places and shopping areas.
View more: Ho Chi Minh City Tour
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