Saint-Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph's Cathedral, the Notre-Dame of Hanoi

St. Joseph's Cathedral is one of the most emblematic monuments of Hanoi. Nicknamed the Notre-Dame of Vietnam for its resemblance to the Parisian cathedral, it stands to the west of Hoan Kiem Lake. The Hanoi audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this witness of the colonial era.

A neo-Gothic cathedral inaugurated in 1886

Built by the French between 1884 and 1886 and inaugurated at Christmas 1886, St. Joseph's Cathedral is in the neo-Gothic style. Its two towers and its façade recall Notre-Dame of Paris, which earns it its nickname. The oldest Catholic religious building of this scale in Hanoi, it testifies to the French presence and remains a major place of worship of the capital, to the west of Hoan Kiem Lake.

What to see

You admire the neo-Gothic façade and the two towers, which evoke Notre-Dame of Paris, as well as the interior, in an atmosphere of contemplation. The lively district that surrounds it, with its cafés and shops, contrasts with the solemnity of the building. It is a major stop of Hanoi, between colonial heritage and local life.

Practical information

St. Joseph's Cathedral lies to the west of Hoan Kiem Lake, in the heart of Hanoi, reachable on foot. A working Catholic place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; opening hours vary with celebrations. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

Why is St. Joseph's called the Notre-Dame of Hanoi?

Because of its façade and its two neo-Gothic towers, which recall Notre-Dame of Paris; it was inaugurated at Christmas 1886.

Where is St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi?

To the west of Hoan Kiem Lake, in the heart of Hanoi, in Vietnam.