Journey to find hundreds of years old churches
There are lands that contain peaceful beauty that we always want to return to. Here, the majestic architecture blends with the soul of the Northern countryside, not only bringing beautiful frames but also a place to listen to the story of time, finding tranquility for the soul.
So Kien Basilica
That is also what Lam Bao Hoang, a photography enthusiast, found in two famous churches: So Kien Basilica in Ha Nam and Phuc Nhac Parish Church in Ninh Binh. "The architecture of Catholic churches not only has a strong European style but is also an impressive cultural heritage, an ideal place to enjoy art and find peace," Hoang shared.
Phuc Nhac Parish Church
The majestic beauty of So Kien Basilica
Nestled in the middle of a peaceful countryside, about 5 km from Phu Ly ward, Ninh Binh province (formerly Ha Nam province), So Kien Basilica (or Ke So Church) appears majestic and magnificent. Started in 1877, this project was once the largest and most beautiful Catholic church in Indochina.
Every detail of European Gothic architecture is exquisitely carved, combined with the solidity and durability of traditional Vietnamese materials, creating a majestic yet intimate whole. Sunlight shines through large windows, falling on the old brick floor, creating enchanting light and dark patches. Every small corner here can become a work of art, worthy of being a destination that is hard to ignore for photography lovers.
For many, visiting the So Kien Basilica is to enter a world where the past and present intersect. Each bell, each time-worn step whispers of more than a century of history in this land.
Phuc Nhac: The silence of a memory
Not too far from So Kien Cathedral, in Yen Khanh Commune, Ninh Binh Province is Phuc Nhac Parish Church. This place used to be a famous seminary, called the old Phuc Nhac Institute. If So Kien is splendid and majestic, Phuc Nhac has a more quiet and profound look.
Unlike the splendor of So Kien, Phuc Nhac brings a nostalgic feeling reminiscent of a golden age of knowledge and faith. Soft light shines through the high windows, green moss covers the old walls - all creating a space that is both quiet and sacred. It is this simplicity that makes Phuc Nhac an emotional stop for those who want to find peace of mind.
Symphony of Life and Religion
The long corridors and moss-covered walls seem to tell the story of a time of education and knowledge. Although it has undergone many changes, the remaining parts of the building still remind us of a prosperous past, of the footprints of those who sought the light of knowledge and faith.
Not only do they have architectural value, the two structures are also symbols of the harmony between religion and daily life. The ringing of church bells not only invites worship, but also forms part of the rhythm of village life, blending with the lively chatter after each prayer.
Both churches belong to Phat Diem Diocese, which explains the similarities in style and spiritual values. When visiting, visitors not only admire the architectural beauty but also step into a long story of religion, knowledge and memory. Every historical detail, from the carvings on the walls to the moss-covered corridors, is a reminder of the historical journey of the land.
So Kien Basilica and Phuc Nhac Parish Church are two destinations not to be missed by those who love architecture, history and want to find a bit of peace. They are like deep music, resounding in the plains, where the past and the present blend, architecture and life are linked, creating a deep connection with culture and with each person's soul.
