St. Josephs Cathedral is a historic Roman Catholic church located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Built in 1886 during French colonial rule, it is considered the architectural centerpiece of Hanoi's Christian community.
The cathedral rises from Hanoi's narrow streets with twin 31.5-meter bell towers that chime across the Old Quarter every hour. Built in 1886 in Neo-Gothic style modeled after Notre Dame de Paris, its white limestone facade creates a striking contrast against the surrounding French colonial buildings. Entry is free with donations welcome, and the best time to visit is during Sunday evening mass at 6pm when stained glass windows cast colored light across stone floors while the pipe organ reverberates through Gothic arches. Inside, the scent of aged wood and flickering candles creates an atmosphere of quiet reverence amid the city's constant motion.
Best Time: Late afternoon for best lighting
Time Needed: 30-60 minutes
Entrance: Free