Domaine de Marie Church - Everything you need to know

Domaine de Marie Church is celebrated as a hidden gem but always becomes a topic to initiate conversation whenever Da Lat is mentioned. Whether you are passionate about exploring Da Lat City in architectural and cultural aspects or simply chasing unforgettable photos for your trip, you have come to the right place!

Location

Domaine de Marie Church is situated on Lam Son Hill, No.1 Ngo Quyen Street, Ward 6, Da Lat City. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a view of one part of the city, which is not easily found at every destination.

Mai Anh Church, Vinh Son Church,... different names can be listed when talking about this church. Each name is tied to its own story about the allure of this destination in the past. Currently, the church has been so well-known that it has become a dispensable stop for tourists visiting Da Lat.

History

The church was constructed in the period of 1940 and 1944, spearheaded by Madame Suzanne Humbert belonging to the Governor-General of French Indochina. Such “Domaine de Marie” name is given due to the meaning of “The Land of Our Lady”. Its current success is a result of the collective efforts, both in terms of manpower and resources, of the local Catholic community at that time. Initially, the church only consisted of the main convent of The Daughters of Charity. However, since 1975, it has had additional facilities equipped to serve public and volunteer purposes.

Tourist attraction

The church captivates its own charms, thus if you skip it, you will be missing out on a lot.

This church teaches us the importance of gratitude towards its benefactor, Madame Suzanne Humbert, who played a vital role in the establishment and construction. Unfortunately, the tragic woman passed away following an accident on her journey from Saigon back to Da Lat. To honor her dedication, the locals decided to bury her within the church grounds as a heartfelt gesture.

Domaine de Marie Church stands out with Western's timeless infrastructure. A pink hue covers all the grounds signaling a timeless one. In some ways, the church is more modern compared to traditional Western designs. These distinctive features of Vietnam’s historical influences are listed as the roof shaped like the traditional longhouse roofs of Central Highlands, or using natural binders like lime and molasses in the wall construction instead of cement.

Beyond a sacred site, the church is also a big home for many orphaned children. Following its mission from the very beginning, the church continues to uphold the less fortunate by running orphanages, centers for people with disabilities, free medical care, and vocational training centers. That explains why tourists can find handmade products at the souvenir shop within the church.

You are wondering where to capture memorable photos? Drop on it. It is the pink hues spreading throughout the sanctuary, along with the lush greenery that becomes the backdrop for your pictures. No other place captures the ancient and majestic beauty from the inside out quite like Domain de Marie does. You will also be surrounded by plenty of flora, adding the uniqueness of Da Lat. Many tourists stop here for hours, simply to admire seasonal colorful flowers on their own. Getting lost in the tranquil ambiance feels like stepping into a dreamscape filled with the vibrant colors of nature and culture.

How to get there, some important tips

Located at the heart of Da Lat city, about 1,5 kilometers from Da Lat Market and nearby 4 kilometers from Lam Vien Square, the church is easily reached by most tourists. However, for first-timers, this may not be without an effort. It’s best to rely on Google Maps or ask for assistance directly from the friendly locals. After a short journey through the scenic road, the church reveals its beauty that has long been admired.

As a religious destination, it’s important to express respect through concrete actions, such as dressing politely, and preserving the flora, avoiding rushing or making noise. Please remember, to leave only footprints, and take away only photos and experiences.