Nestled by the southern bank of the Perfume River, Phường Đúc Church is one of the earliest churches in Hue, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural and historical connection between Vietnam and Western missionaries. Its origin dates back to the 17th century and stands today as a witness to centuries of religious devotion and craftsmanship.
Overview of Phuong Duc Church
The origin of Phường Đúc Church traces back to the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Tan (1648–1687), when Spanish priest Joao Da Crus (Jean de la Croix) arrived in southern Vietnam. He supported the Nguyen lord in casting bronze and cannons, and with permission, founded a bamboo chapel by the bronze casting workshop along the Perfume River.
By 1713, another chapel was built under Loi Citadel, and later, Franciscan priests reconstructed it near the riverbank—the same spot where Joao da Crus first established his worship space. The present Phường Đúc Church structure, as seen today, was completed in the 20th century, built in European style with bricks and tiles, replacing the earlier bamboo structure.
Although the original chapel no longer exists, a bell cast in 1895 bearing a 40-line Sino-Vietnamese poem remains as a treasured relic. Historical photos from 1892 also show the church’s resemblance to An Van Church, flanked by two traditional-style houses once used to house a bell and a stele.
For those looking to dive deeper into Hue’s lesser-known spiritual heritage, Phường Đúc Church offers a journey into the past—quiet, solemn, and profoundly cultural.
How to get to Phuong Duc Church
Phường Đúc Church is located close to the Perfume River, about 3 km from the Hue Imperial City. You can:
- Take a taxi or motorbike (approx. 10 minutes)
- Rent a bicycle and enjoy a riverside ride
- Join a half-day city tour with Hue Smile Travel including nearby cultural sites
Address: 321 Bui Thi Xuan, Phuong Duc, Hue city
Nearby attractions
- Thien Mu Pagoda – 5 minutes by car
- Hue Imperial City – 10 minutes away
- Kim Long Ancient Village – within walking distance
- Bao Quoc Pagoda
- Perfume River walking path
✨ Discover this historical gem and many others with Hue Smile Travel – your expert companion in exploring Hue’s timeless charm.
