So Kien Basilica - A 140-Year-Old Ancient Church in Ha Nam

Nestled beside the poetic Day River, So Kien is renowned as a densely populated region. At the heart of Kiện Khê town, Thanh Liêm district, Hà Nam province, stands the So Kien Church (or Ke So Church). Constructed in October 1877 and completed in 1822, this landmark once served as the main cathedral of the diocese from 1882 to 1936. In June 2010, So Kien Church was elevated to the status of a minor basilica, bearing the title of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. This prestigious recognition officially placed it among the four minor basilicas in Vietnam.
 

The church's compound covers approximately 9 hectares, with the main church stretching 67.2m in length, 31.2m in width, and 23.2m in height. Due to its construction over a former swamp, the entire foundation is lined with ironwood to prevent subsidence. The sacred area and altar are crafted from intricately carved wood, adorned with gold leaf in the traditional Vietnamese style.

So Kien stands as the only structure in Vietnam planned and built in the style of an Italian cathedral complex (doumo). Stepping through the main gate, visitors enter a compound with buildings designed in Gothic architecture, including the main church, the bishop's residence, and the seminary.
 

From the ceiling to the doors, the structure boasts the characteristic high vaulted arches of European churches. Stained glass windows depict saints and biblical events. Inside the main church, four rows of columns divide the space vertically, with a capacity to accommodate around 5,000 people.

Externally, the church captivates with its vibrant stained glass windows. The church tower holds four bells, each representing a musical note - do, re, mi, sol. The heaviest bell, weighing nearly 2.5 tons, is known as the “Bong” bell. On festive days, the ringing of the bells resonates like a harmonious symphony throughout the villages and alleys of the Kien Khe region. Additionally, the surrounding walls are adorned with red bricks, creating a splendid scene under the sunlight.

Despite some areas of the church experiencing severe deterioration over the years, with some walls reduced to rubble, So Kien remains an ideal destination for architecture and Western art enthusiasts. With its grandiose architecture blending Eastern and Western styles, So Kien Church attracts numerous visitors. Most guests express fascination, feeling transported to a European cultural space. Spending an afternoon wandering here ensures discovering unique photo opportunities and capturing the beauty of this remarkable place.

Moreover, this region is renowned for the specialty dish, Kien Khe rice paper. A delectable treat that travelers often purchase as a souvenir, these thick, crispy, fragrant rice crackers are crafted through a meticulous process, from careful ingredient selection to skillful baking and drying.

So Kien Basilica is conveniently located approximately 70km from Hanoi, making it suitable for day trips or combined leisure and tourism excursions. If you're seeking accommodation in Ha Nam, feel free to contact Tien Loc Palace Hotel. We are ready to assist and provide guidance for your stay!
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