Phat Diem Cathedral is the most cathedrals in Ninh Binh which is the age of more over 100 years. The cathedral is designed with Eastern and Western architecture, attracting a large number of tourists visiting here. Coming to Ninh Binh, you should visit Phat Diem cathedral. 

Phat Diem Cathedral Overview

Phat Diem Cathedral is located in Phat Diem town, Ninh Binh province with the area of 22ha complex. This complex consists of several Catholic works and sanctuaries, built from 1875 to 1899. 

The paranomic view of Phat Diem stone cathedral

With a long history about 100 years, Phat Diem Stone Church is one of the best things to visit in Ninh Binh. In 1862, Tran Luc, a priest, proceeded to Ninh Binh to construct the cathedral. However, the construction ​​was completed in 1898. 

Phat Diem Cathedral

The material of Phat Diem Cathedral is thousands of tons of stone and many ironwood pillars. Many people took a lot of labor, and the unique cathedral welcomed several visitors. 

Highlight architecture of Phat Diem Cathedral in Ninh Binh

Phat Diem stone cathedral is a masterpiece construction, a combination of Eastern and Western styles. It is unlike the traditional architecture of cathedrals in Vietnam. 

Appearance of Phat Diem stone church

There is a bell tower, an artificial stone cave, a main church, and 5 small churches in the grounds of the cathedral. Nestled in a mountain behind the cathedral, you can see a lake in front of it. 

Explore the Phuong Dinh bell tower

The bell tower is a symbol of Phat Diem stone church, 21m wide and 25m tall. Lying on two sides of the bell tower, there are some saints and stories about the life of Jesus. 

The Phuong Dinh bell tower includes 3 floors. There are 5 tower blocks on the top floor. It is a 1.4 m tall bell which weighs 2 tons in the central tower block. There are 4 saints in the remaining four blocks. 

Visiting the main church

The next place that you should visit, don't forget to explore the main church. The church is situated in the heart of Phat Diem cathedral with 74m long, 21m wide, 4 roofs and 5 entrances. 

The main church of Phat Diem stone

Going deep, you will see an altar which is made of monolithic stone and its extricated patterns in the front and back.

Admire of the Trai Tim Duc Me stone church

Trai Tim Duc Me Stone Church is an English name as the Heart of Our Lady in English, which is the most  stunning church among the 5 small ones. The church is 15.3m long and 8.5m wide. Most churches are made of stone from foundation, pillars, beams, walls. The church becomes colorful with the decoration. 

How to get to Phat Diem Cathedral?

Phat Diem cathedral is around 120km away in Hanoi. The estimate is about a 2 hour transfer by a private car from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. With a short distance, you can visit the place by motorbike, car, bus or private car. 

From My Dinh bus station or Giap Bat bus station, you can get to Ninh Binh city with the price of 150.000 VND. 

If you want to save money, you can get a motorbike. However, you should book a private car with a driver to visit many tour attractions such as Trang An, Mua cave, Bai Dinh pagoda... and Phat Diem cathedral. You will feel comfortable, relaxed and not wait for any public vehicles.  

Tips for traveling to Phat Diem cathedral

• Don't make loud noises
• Should wear sports shoes
• Bring water, a hat and sun cream 
• Avoid revealing clothes. 

Phat Diem cathedral combines harmonious and unique architecture art. If you are planning to Phat Diem cathedral, don't forget to bring this place during your schedule.