Da Nang is home to a significant Catholic population, resulting in the construction of numerous historical churches throughout the city. These churches hold immense historical significance, standing as iconic symbols of Da Nang, and serve as popular tourist destinations for visitors to the city. Danangbest will introduce some of the most renowned and architecturally stunning Da Nang Cathedral in this article.
The Pink Church was constructed in Da Nang during the French colonial era. Its construction began in February 1923 on an empty lot on Rue du Musée (now Tran Phu Street), and the inauguration ceremony took place on March 10, 1924.
The Pink Church, also known as Da Nang Cathedral, is affectionately called "Rooster Church" by the locals. This moniker stems from the large rooster atop the church's bell tower. In the past, many locals and tourists alike have wondered about the church's architecture, particularly the presence of the rooster on the bell tower.
Da Nang Cathedral
These questions were later answered by some parishioners and historical documents. There are several reasons for the rooster perched atop the church bell tower.
One of the reasons is that the French built Da Nang Cathedral. For the French, the Gaulle rooster is a sacred symbol and emblem of their nation. Since the Middle Ages, the Gaulle rooster has represented hope and faith for the French people. It frequently adorns church bell towers and watchtowers. When the French constructed Da Nang Cathedral, they incorporated this symbol and cultural element into the design.
Additionally, the rooster also holds symbolic significance in the Christian faith, representing repentance. In the New Testament, Jesus reprimands Peter (one of his twelve apostles), stating, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times." Therefore, placing the rooster atop the bell tower, at the highest point, symbolizes the repentance of the congregation for their transgressions against God.
Besides the symbolic and historical significance mentioned earlier, the rooster perched atop the church holds a special place in the hearts of locals, serving as a weather vane. Mounted on the church's lightning rod, the rooster rotates with the wind, preventing it from being blown over. As a result, the local community believes that observing the rooster's orientation can indicate wind direction, helping them predict sunny or rainy days. Thus, the rooster statue not only serves as a distinctive feature of Da Nang Cathedral but also fulfills a practical purpose.
Not only does the church attract visitors with its iconic rooster symbol on the bell tower, but it also impresses with its unique Gothic architecture. The intermingling of Vietnamese and French influences in the arches and overall design create a distinctive beauty for this church. Inside, the vaults and columns are simply carved but still bear the hallmarks of French architectural style. Behind the church is the grotto of Ave Maria, built in the style of the Louder grotto in France, adding a touch of sacredness and tranquility.
Standing tall for over a century, the Da Nang Cathedral, also known as the Rooster Church, has become an integral part of Vietnam's tumultuous history and a symbol of the cultural and architectural fusion between Vietnam and France.
Beyond its status as a renowned tourist destination in Da Nang, the church serves as a sacred sanctuary for Catholic pilgrims visiting Vietnam, drawing them to its doors for worship and spiritual solace, particularly on weekends. In essence, this landmark embodies both the historical and spiritual significance of Vietnam.
Mass Schedule at Da Nang Cathedral:
Sundays: 5:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM (GMT +7)
Weekdays: 5:00 AM, 5:15 PM (GMT +7)
Address: 156 Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau 1 Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City.
Besides the pink church, another notable church in Da Nang is the Phu Thuong Church, also known as Da Nang Cathedral. Situated in the Phu Thuong Catholic community, it stands as the largest church in this location.
Boasting a unique H-shaped design and a history spanning over 130 years, Phu Thuong Church stands as a testament to Da Nang's rich heritage, much like the Rooster Church. On March 26, 1670, Father Haingues from Hoi An arrived in Bau Nghe (present-day An Nghai), where he stayed with the Catholic community for four months. During his time there, he baptized 500 people in Phuong Trac, the ancient name of Phu Thuong Parish. From this humble beginning, the parish has flourished into the vibrant community it is today.
Phu Thuong church
Mass Schedule:
Saturday: 5:30 PM (GMT +7)
Sunday: Three Masses at 5:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 5:30 PM (GMT +7)
Address: 605 Road, Hoa Vang Ward, Da Nang City.
This church is one of the largest places of worship for Protestants in Da Nang. It is an ideal destination for Protestant tourists and locals to attend services every weekend.
The church was constructed in 1931. Initially, the Protestant congregation built the church using basic materials like wood and roofing it with thatched tiles. The number of congregants was also quite small during the early days. However, in 1922, the church was severely damaged by a flood. This prompted the congregation to rebuild the church with a more robust structure.
Mass Schedule:
Weekdays - 2 masses take place at 5:00 A.M and 5:00 P.M (GMT +7)
Sunday 6 Masses take place at 5:15 A.M, 8:00 A.M, 10:00 A.M, 3:00 P.M, 5:00 P.M and 6:30 P.M (GMT +7)
Address: 190 Ong Ich Khiem, Tan Chinh, Thanh Khe, Da Nang.
Protestant Church
In addition, there are many other famous churches in Da Nang that you can visit. The churches are often spread out and located in different areas of Da Nang. Therefore, you can easily choose the churches that are closest to your accommodation for convenient weekly Mass attendance.
As can be seen, most of the churches in Da Nang, especially the Rooster Church, are very old. This is because Da Nang is one of the places chosen by Catholic missionaries to spread the word from the very beginning. This is a place where many Catholics gather and has a long history of religion, going back many years. Therefore, for foreign tourists, especially those who are Catholic, it is very easy and convenient for them to attend Mass every weekend when they come to Da Nang for sightseeing. You can make the most of your trip while still being able to turn your heart to God. It couldn't be more convenient.
The above is information about Da Nang churches that Danangbest provides to you. Hopefully, it will help not only tourists but also locals to have more information about Da Nang churches. If you need to travel to Da Nang in particular and Central Vietnam in general, please contact Danangbest immediately to have a memorable tour at the most reasonable price!
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