Saint Joseph Cathedral, Cathedral in Hang Trong, Hanoi, Vietnam.
Saint Joseph Cathedral is a church building in Hang Trong, Hanoi, that extends roughly 64 meters (210 feet) in length with two bell towers rising about 31 meters (102 feet) above the plaza. The interior is lit by stained glass windows made in France, while narrow pointed arch windows line the facade.
Construction of the building began in 1884 during French colonial rule and was completed two years later. The site previously held Bao Thien Pagoda from the Ly dynasty era.
On Sundays worshipers gather on the square and steps before services begin, turning the building into a living community space. Many visitors stay after mass to share coffee in the surrounding streets.
Attending the morning mass at 5:30 AM or the evening service at 6:15 PM on weekdays offers a chance to experience the interior in a quieter setting. On Sundays seven services take place, which are often well attended with the congregation extending onto the street.
A pipe organ with 1850 pipes was installed in 2022 through a collaboration between Japanese and Belgian craftsmen. The instrument fills the interior with sound during special occasions and festive services.
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