The Phat Diem Cathedral in Ninh Binh is an ancient architectural masterpiece over 100 years old, built over 30 years with a distinctive Asian-European architectural style that sets it apart from other churches in Vietnam. It is considered the ‘Catholic Capital of Vietnam.’ What makes this architectural style unique? Today, let’s explore the Phat Diem Cathedral in Ninh Binh with DanangPrivateCar.com.
Introduction to Phat Diem Stone Cathedral
The ensemble of the cathedral is a harmonious blend of Eastern temple architecture and Western Gothic style, creating an architectural complex like a pond, the Mother Mary’s sanctuary.
Unlike the towering or grand architectural styles of churches in the Hai Hau, Nam Dinh region, Phat Diem Stone Cathedral follows the architectural style of temples and pagodas. The cathedral is designed with a curved roof resembling a temple, with a cross-shaped tower resembling the Buddha on a lotus pedestal.
Built in 1892 and completed after more than 30 years, it is the oldest church in the country to date. If you come to Ninh Binh to explore the natural beauty of Tam Coc – Bich Dong, the scenic complex of Trang An, the Bai Dinh Pagoda that holds many records in Vietnam, do not miss this famous spiritual tourist destination in Ninh Binh!
The history of Phat Diem Church.
In the early 19th century, this land remained largely untouched, characterized by mudflats and wild vegetation. In 1828, a talented official named Nguyen Cong Tru arrived. Renowned and appointed as “Dinh Dien Su” by the Hue court, he explored this new region. He played a significant role in establishing Tien Hai district (Thai Binh) and Kim Son district (Ninh Binh), both prosperous areas known as the “golden mountains and silver seas.”
The complex of Phat Diem Church was built in the Kim Son region under the leadership of Father Peter Tran Luc (commonly known as Cu Sau, 1825-1899). Cu Sau served as the main priest of Phat Diem from 1965. During his 34 years as the head priest, Cu Sau dedicated himself to educating the community and fostering moral values among the parishioners. Notably, he had a broad perspective in overseeing the construction of the Phat Diem Stone Church complex. The materials used for the church were of the highest quality of that time, including stone and ironwood. This place is also referred to as the “spiritual capital of Catholicism in Vietnam.
The most suitable time to visit Phat Diem Cathedral in Ninh Binh.
With the mild and cool weather in Ninh Binh throughout the year, occasionally accompanied by light rain, tourists can visit Phat Diem Cathedral at any time from January to December. However, based on the travel experience of DanangPrivateCar.com, the most suitable time to visit Phat Diem Cathedral is during the annual Christmas season. During Christmas, the place hosts many meaningful activities, and the meticulous and elaborate decorations will undoubtedly surprise and astonish you with the splendid beauty of the cathedral
Guide to getting to Phat Diem Stone Church
Phat Diem Stone Church is located approximately 28 km from Ninh Binh City and about 120 km from Hanoi, so you can reach it by various means of transportation: motorbike, car, train, and even buses.
- Motorbike, Scooter, or Bicycle: This is the most convenient option, especially for young travelers. From Hanoi, take the Giải Phóng Road, follow National Highway 1A to Phu Ly City in Ha Nam Province, and then continue towards Ninh Binh City. Move approximately 30 km further south to reach Phat Diem Stone Church.
- Passenger Cars: If you prefer not to drive or are unsure of directions, you can take a passenger car to Ninh Binh. You can catch a bus at stations like My Dinh or Giap Bat with prices ranging from 70,000 to 100,000 VND. After about a 2-hour journey, you will arrive in Ninh Binh City. From there, you can rent a motorbike in Ninh Binh or take a taxi to Phat Diem Stone Church.
- Private Car: For a quick, safe, and convenient option with door-to-door service, you can book a private car with a driver in Hanoi from DanangPrivateCar.com. With a professional driver and basic English communication skills, your trip will be smoother. Book a private car from Hanoi to Ninh Binh today to arrange your schedule effortlessly.
Explore the 130-year-old Phat Diem Stone Cathedral
Upon arrival, you will be amazed by the grandeur and intricate design of this cathedral. Builders transported various materials—ponds, lakes, statues, bell towers, large church components, and artificial stone caves—from remote areas such as Nghe An and Thanh Hoa, covering hundreds of kilometers to construct this cathedral in Ninh Binh. Despite primitive working conditions, workers moved thousands of tons of stone and hundreds of large ironwood logs, some exceeding 12 meters in length and weighing over 7 tons, to build this impressive structure.
Unlike other churches in Vietnam, Phat Diem Stone Cathedral stands out for its harmonious blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. Architects arranged all elements in a comprehensive pattern resembling the Chinese character “王.” They designed the open spaces following the principles of Eastern Feng Shui, placing water in the front and mountains in the back to symbolize the ancient belief in ensuring peaceful, prosperous lives.
The Phat Diem Cathedral complex features a large church and five smaller churches. One of them, built with natural stone, is called the Stone Church, which includes a bell tower and an artificial stone cave.
Phuong Dinh (Bell Tower)
Perhaps the masterpiece of Phat Diem Stone Cathedral in Ninh Binh, Phuong Dinh, meaning a square house resembling a large village communal house, is 21 meters wide and 25 meters high with three floors. The entrance gate of Phuong Dinh is designed like a traditional Tam Quan gate, constructed with green stone using exquisite techniques. On the stone walls, there are bas-reliefs of saints and depictions of the life of Jesus. The top floor of Phuong Dinh has five tower blocks, with the central block containing a 2-ton bell, producing sound audible up to 10 kilometers. The four surrounding blocks feature statues of four saints holding the Gospel, resembling lotus buds, representing the harmonious integration of Eastern and Western cultures.
Large Church Area
Situated in the central position is the large church area, 74 meters long, 21 meters wide, with four roofs and five intricately carved entrances. The main area is the church, housing a large stone altar adorned with typical seasonal patterns on both the front and back. The unique small churches, from pillars to foundations, walls, and doors, are all carved from stone.
The builders designed the roofing system in the traditional overlapping style with two layers, adding windows to bring in light and create a lofty appearance. At the end of the church, a granite stone canopy forms five entrances leading into the main hall. The floor and vertical surfaces slope gently toward the central entrance, giving the structure a balanced and harmonious look. Graceful curved tiles cover the tower’s roof, showcasing a unique blend of East Asian architecture. Inside the church, artisans painted the wooden worship items with gold, creating a sacred space rich in Vietnamese tradition.
Heart of the Blessed Mother
Among the five small churches in Phat Diem, the Heart of the Blessed Mother stands out. Initiated by Mr. Sau, it measures 15.3 meters long and 8.5 meters wide. Locals call it the “Stone Church” because builders used stone for most of the floor, columns, rafters, walls, and towers.
On Christmas Eve, the church glows with colorful lights, fluorescent rocks, and Christmas trees, attracting both locals and tourists.
Although a Catholic church, it incorporates traditional Vietnamese temple elements, with curved, boat-shaped roofs made entirely of Lim wood. Builders sourced stone from Thien Duong Mountain and precious stones from Nhoi Mountain, transporting massive logs and slabs under primitive conditions.
The cathedral also features intricate carvings of dragons, unicorns, turtles, phoenixes, pine trees, bamboo, apricots, and lotus flowers, skillfully carved onto green stone blocks.
Phat Diem Stone Cathedral blends Eastern and Western architecture, intertwining Buddhism and Christianity, offering visitors both a place of worship and a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Some notes when visiting Phat Diem Stone Cathedral
- When exploring the historical sites in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, visitors should maintain their composure, avoiding actions that may disturb those around them, such as sitting or stepping on statues.
- Here, there are souvenir stalls offering local specialties from the Ninh Binh region, such as Kim Son wine and crispy rice. After your visit, you can consider these items as gifts for your family and friends.
- You should also choose appropriate attire for your visit to this sacred tourist spot. Additionally, it’s advisable to bring water to replenish your energy for fully exploring this unique cathedral.
- Furthermore, when visiting this attraction, don’t forget to take photos at the Phat Diem Tile Bridge. This bridge has been featured on Vietnam’s postage stamps.
Conclusion
Phat Diem Cathedral in Ninh Binh is not only the oldest church in Vietnam but also a masterpiece that harmoniously blends Eastern and Western architecture. Visiting this historic site allows you to admire its unique design and learn more about the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.
If you’re planning a trip to Ninh Binh, don’t miss the chance to explore Phat Diem Cathedral along with other famous attractions such as Trang An, Tam Coc, and Bai Dinh Pagoda.
This article from DanangPrivateCar.com
is dedicated to travelers seeking reliable information and inspiration for their Vietnam journey. Start planning your visit today and discover the timeless beauty of Phat Diem Cathedral Ninh Binh!
