St. Joseph's Cathedral (simply called “Big Church” in Vietnamese), Nha Chung Street near the Hoan Kiem Lake. This is a Roman Catholic cathedral with neo- gothic which was built over 100 year ago.

Nguyen Quang Ngoc Tonkin

St Joseph Cathedral

Hanoi

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Hanoi's neo-Gothic St Joseph Cathedral was inaugurated in 1886, and has a soaring facade that faces a little plaza that's usually stuffed with selfie sticks and posses of preening photographers. The church's most noteworthy features are the looming twin bell towers, elaborate altar and fine stained-glass windows. Entrance via the main gate is only permitted during Mass: times are listed on a sign on the gates to the left of the cathedral.

At other times, enter via the Diocese of Hanoi compound, a block away at 40 P Nha Chung. When you reach the side door to the cathedral, to your right, ring the small bell high up on the right-hand side of the door.

An array of cafes and restaurants are artfully placed with views to the cathedral, including La Place, Eden Cafe and Cong Caphe.

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