Ham Long Church, Hanoi

Hàm Long Church, officially known as the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, is a significant Roman Catholic church located in the Hoàn Kiếm district of Hanoi. Established towards the end of the 19th century, the church is situated near an old street named Hàm Long, from which it derives its name. Today, Hàm Long Church is one of the three major churches in Hanoi, alongside Cửa Bắc Church and Saint Joseph Cathedral.

Initially, a Roman Catholic church was erected near Doudart de Lagrée Street, historically known as Hàm Long Street, during the late 19th century. The current structure of Hàm Long Church was constructed in 1934, and designed by a Vietnamese architect under the French colonial administration. Notably, the street also hosts a Buddhist pagoda named Hàm Long Pagoda (Chùa Hàm Long), which dates back to the 11th century.

Hàm Long Church showcases unique architectural features that blend local and colonial influences. The design incorporates traditional Vietnamese building materials such as straw, limestone, and paper. These materials were ingeniously used to create arches that effectively diffuse sound during ceremonies, eliminating the need for a modern sound system. The church's columns and altars are adorned with rope-like designs reminiscent of Franciscan straps, reflecting its dedication to Saint Anthony of Padua.

Hàm Long Church holds a prominent place in the religious and cultural landscape of Hanoi. It is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the historical and architectural evolution of the city. As one of the major churches in Hanoi, it continues to serve as a central location for the Catholic community and attracts numerous visitors interested in its historical and architectural heritage.