If you are one who is into the architecture of churches, Nam Dinh should be on top of your to-go list. Nam Dinh is the first place that accepted Christian in Viet Nam, this seaside province has some of the most breath-taking churches in the whole country. The Christian churches in Nam Dinh carries a Gothic theme, which make them stand out from the rest across the region.
The Minster of Nam Dinh
Located in the center of the city of Nam Dinh, the Minster was designed frugally, yet still managed to display the elegance and taciturn.
Khoai Dong Cathedral
Not too far away from The Minster, next to Vi Xuyen lake, lies Khoai Dong Cathedral. This is one of the two churches in Vietnam that worships St. Nicolas.
Phong Loc Parish
Also lies in city central, 1 km away from the Minster across the river is Phong Loc Parish.
Lien Thuy Parish
Bui Chu Parish
Located in Xuan Ngoc county, Xuan Truong district, built in 1885, Bui Chu Parish still remains its sanctiy and maestro. Taking place at an area of nearly 2 square kilometers and standing at 15 meters, this has been the hosting location for many important Christian events.
Phu An Church
Phu An Church is a part of Bui Chu Parish.
Phu Nhai Primary Basilica
The Primary Basilica lies in Xuan Phuong county, Xuan Truong district. It is one of the first Christian churches in the history of Vietnam Catholic. Phu Nhai Primary Basilica has been rebuilt 5 times, the first in the XVIII century, most recent was 1933. The church has the area of 80×27 square meter and stands at 30 meter tall. The two towers reach 44 meter high.
Kien Lao Cathedral
Kien Lao Cathedral is located in Xuan Tien county, Xuan Truong district, has an area of 2 square kilometers and stand at 28 meter. It has a bell tower reaches 46 meter. The view outside of the place is completely mesmerizing with two sparkling fresh water lakes and ancient, romantic street lights.
Trung Linh Church
Can be found 1.5 km away from Bui Chu Parish, Trung Linh church was built in 1928, and is the preferred location for couples who want to take their wedding photos.
Thanh Danh Parish
Another church from Xuan Trung, Xuan Truong. Thanh Danh Parish is known for emboldened paintings about the Bible.
Hung Nghia Cathedral
You will be blown away when you see this. It feels like an elegant, magical castle with sophisticated and modern details. Hung Nghia Cathedral is located in Hai Hung county, Hai Hau district. It was first built in 1927, but was badly damaged over time. The place was rebuilt from 2000 and was reopened in 2007.
Xuong Dien Church
Near the beach of Giao Thuy, you can find many beautiful churches. One of them is Xuong Dien, with red tile roof like traditional Buddhism temples. This is the combination of styles between Western and Eastern.
Pharaoh Church
This church is located in the province of Hai Hau. It was built in 1716 and has been relocated twice.
The abandoned Cathedral of Hai Ly
Although destroyed, the abandoned Cathedral near the beach of Hai Ly remains one of the favorite sights for visitors near and far.
Other enjoyments
There are many churches in Nam Dinh, everything I mentioned above is just the tip of the iceberg. If you really have the time and passion for Christian architecture then feel free to spend a little longer to discover what I have yet known. And while you are at it, enjoy the sight of one of the most peaceful seasides in the country, take some time to know the locals, take part in their everyday activities, live slowly and make lives meaningful.