Danang Cathedral

Cathedral in Da Nang

Da Nang Pink Cathedral
CC BY-SA 4.0 / ndoduc

Da Nang’s Pink Cathedral, also known as the Chicken Church, sits prominently on one of the busiest streets in this coastal city. As a renowned tourist spot, it captivates visitors with its unique blend of ancient, European-inspired architecture and vibrant, pink exterior. The church, with its distinct religious beauty, is a must-visit attraction when exploring Da Nang.

Da Nang Cathedral, also referred to as the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Tourane Church, or simply the Chicken Church, is situated on the bustling Tran Phu Street in Da Nang’s city center.

Historical Background of Da Nang’s Chicken Church

The church’s history dates back to the late 1600s, when Priests Baudet, Marquette, and Fuciti were assigned to serve at Han Gate until they were expelled from Vietnam by Lord Hien in 1665. Later, Father Rival’s report to the Paris Mission Society (MEP) mentioned the Nguyen Lords’ ransacking of the Cua Han Church in 1700, and by 1741, the Cua Han Congregation had 80 members. The Tay Son army destroyed the Cua Han Congregation in 1775, leaving it inactive until 1885, when parishioners returned to the area, leading to its revitalization under Father Maillard.

The current Da Nang Cathedral was constructed between February 1923 and September 1924 and was consecrated by Bishops Grangeon and Allys on September 14, 1924. It was dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In 1963, the Da Nang Diocese was officially established, with the Da Nang Church becoming its cathedral.

Architecture of the Chicken Church

The cathedral is a fine example of Gothic architecture, characterized by tall, pointed arches, round windows, cross-shaped layouts, and domed, high ceilings reaching up to 70 meters. Inside, stained glass windows and murals depict biblical scenes in a design reminiscent of Western churches.

One of the church’s defining features is the weathercock—a gray chicken statue—perched atop the structure. Made from a lightweight alloy, this chicken serves as a wind vane and symbolizes spiritual awakening and repentance according to biblical tradition.

The Grotto of Our Lady

At the rear of the church is the Grotto of Our Lady, modeled after the Lourdes Grotto in France. Built under the direction of Father Santuaire and inaugurated on February 11, 1940, the grotto is a peaceful, sacred spot that enhances the spiritual atmosphere of Da Nang Cathedral.

The Danang Cathedral appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Da Nang!

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Visiting Danang Cathedral

Hours:

Weekdays: 5:00 AM and 5:00 PM

Sundays: 5:15 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 6:30 PM

Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended


Address: 156 Trần Phú, Hải Châu I, Hải Châu District, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam

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