French Architectural Works in Saigon: Historical Picture and Cultural Heritage

Saigon, a modern and vibrant city, not only leaves its mark through new constructions but also retains traces from the colonial period. The French architectural works here, with their ancient and harmonious beauty, tell the story of a historical period. Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office are two of the prominent symbols, reflecting the intersection between Western culture and the characteristics of Saigon city.

Notre Dame Cathedral, located in the heart of the city, is an indispensable symbol in the architectural picture of Saigon. Construction began in 1877 and was completed in 1880. This building has a strong Romanesque style, combined with delicate Gothic features in every design detail. Built entirely with materials imported from France, each red brick, stained glass panel and iron frame of the church were carefully transported, creating an architectural masterpiece that will last forever.

The ancient architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral. Photo: Collected

From afar, the two towering bell towers of the church stand out among the modern buildings. The bright red tiled roof, along with the unstuccoed brick walls, still retain the rustic and durable features of more than a century ago. Inside the church, the stained glass windows with meticulously carved images from the Bible give a sense of sacredness and solemnity. The spacious interior with soaring ceilings highlights the serenity and peace in the heart of a bustling city. For the people here, Notre Dame Cathedral is not only a place of worship, but also a part of life, a place where people return whenever they need a peaceful place.

Not far from Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office is equally outstanding with its Neoclassical architecture built from 1886 to 1891. The design of the Post Office is a perfect combination of European architectural style with the characteristics of East Asian culture. Outside the building, the classic clock above the main entrance is the first highlight that attracts visitors' attention. The reliefs depicting famous scientists such as Voltaire and Ampere along with the sophisticated decorative details on the pillars have brought an eternal beauty to this construction.

Saigon Central Post Office - A cultural and historical destination not to be missed. Photo: Collected

Stepping inside the Post Office, a large space appears with high vaulted ceilings and softly curved iron frames, creating an airy feeling while still retaining an ancient look. The sturdy rows of columns and the corridor system stretching on both sides leading to the offices evoke a feeling of a bygone era, when this place was a bustling trading center. Today, the Post Office is still in operation but has also become a tourist attraction, bringing them back to the history of a Saigon that is changing over the years.

Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office represent a subtle combination of Western architecture and Vietnamese culture, and are witnesses to the many historical changes that the city has gone through. These structures have stood the test of time, reminding us of the value of the past, creating a deep connection between generations and eras. When standing before these symbols, we feel not only the architectural beauty but also the soul of a city with a rich history and culture.

The preservation and maintenance of these structures is a testament to respect for cultural heritage, a reminder that, in the constant flow of development, preserving traditional cultural values is indispensable.

Hoang Anh