“The church with the light colors?” a tourist asked me, squinting at her map. “Yes,” I replied, “that’s the Cha Tam Church.” The Cha Tam Church, also known as the Saint-François-Xavier Church, stands as a unique beacon in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. This Catholic church, established in 1900, boasts a distinctive blend of Gothic architecture with Chinese cultural influences. The Cha Tam Church holds a significant, if somber, place in Vietnam’s history. In 1963, it became a refuge for President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother, Ngo Dinh Nhu, during a coup. They sought sanctuary within the church’s walls. However, their bid for safety ended tragically. They surrendered but were assassinated before they could be taken into custody. Today, the Cha Tam Church continues to serve as a place of worship. It welcomes visitors with its bright façade and serene interior, offering a glimpse into a fascinating chapter of Vietnamese history.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to