Ton Dao Parish, located in Kim Son District of Ninh Binh Province, was established in 1842 under the title of the Immaculate Virgin Mary. It is part of the Phat Diem Diocese, a region known for its strong Catholic heritage.

According to Father Giuse Pham Ngoc Khue, the current parish priest, the church was built over a century ago.

In 1922, French priest Jean Kim (locally known as Father Kim) began construction on the site, which spans over 23,760 square meters. After 14 years of meticulous work, the church was officially inaugurated and became a spiritual symbol for the local Catholic community.

Gothic majesty in rural Vietnam

Ton Dao Church features a 52-meter-long and 25-meter-wide nave, crowned by a striking 35-meter-tall bell tower that pierces the sky.

On the third level of the bell tower hang three massive bells, each paired with flywheels and pulley ropes. These elements create deep, resonant tones that echo across the area each time the bells chime.

The church’s design includes a vaulted roof with flying buttresses, and diamond-shaped stained glass windows running along its flanks. These intricately patterned windows add both refinement and solemnity to the holy space.

From the grand entrance to the sanctuary, every column and altar is adorned with elaborate Gothic carvings, reflecting Western religious architectural influences. The result is a majestic yet sacred environment that evokes awe and reverence.

Exquisite craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism

The church’s front façade is marked by three large wooden doors, each masterfully carved with images of chrysanthemums, lilies, palms, deer, birds, and other elements that together resemble a Garden of Eden. This visual representation of divine beauty adds to the artistic significance of the space.

At the main altar, a statue of the Immaculate Virgin Mary is solemnly enshrined, flanked by two angels holding candles in adoration. The church’s blend of ornate decoration and reverent design has made it a spiritual destination for generations.

Adding to its uniqueness, stone gargoyles and mythical beasts adorn the church’s outer walls, reminiscent of European cathedrals. In Catholic symbolism, where God resides, evil spirits are cast out - represented by these guardian creatures standing watch outside the sacred space.