Nestled in a tranquil village near Hue, An Truyền Church is not only a spiritual landmark but also a preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. This sacred site offers a journey through centuries of history, culture, and religious devotion.
Overview of An Truyen Church
Founded around 1701, An Truyền parish (in Truyen Nam hamlet, Chuon village) is one of the oldest Catholic communities in central Vietnam. Historical letters from 1742 mention around 600 parishioners, though numbers halved after a decade of religious persecution.
An Truyền Church, built between 1887 and 1888, captivates with its antique charm. Its architecture harmonizes French Catholic influences with Hue’s traditional wooden house style. Measuring 30 meters in length and 16 meters in width, the church features two symmetrical three-story towers connected by a railing, topped with gracefully curved roofs and Christian crosses.
Inside, the vertical layout resembles a traditional Hue home, extending deeply from the front. Seven Chinese-style couplets praising Jesus and the Virgin Mary adorn the wooden columns. On one side stands a French-made terracotta statue of Mary, once positioned atop the tower; on the other, a historic bell.
An Truyền parish was once renowned for Moi Khoi palanquin processions featuring ceremonial dances, and for Boi singing – a rare local performance art. Parishioners were also skilled in calligraphy and scripture reading, cultivating a distinct Hue-style liturgical voice.
How to get to An Truyen Church
Address: Truyen Nam, Phu Vang, Hue city
Nearby attractions
- Chuon Lagoon – peaceful waters, great for eco-tours and seafood experiences.
- Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge – an architectural relic showcasing rural Vietnamese beauty.
- Tam Giang Lagoon – ideal for sunset boat rides and cultural excursions.
Let Hue Smile Travel be your guide to uncovering this peaceful, culturally rich sanctuary on your next trip to Hue.
