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If you have the opportunity to visit Da Lat - the city of thousands of flowers and fog, among the many romantic and poetic things in the mountain town, do not miss the opportunity to visit Domaine de Marie Church. Nestled on the peaceful Mai Anh hill, this work is not only a religious symbol but also a unique French architectural highlight, where every small corner can immerse you in the ancient beauty and strange peace.
Domaine de Marie Church. Sunset Holiday
Domaine de Marie Church is one of the three most famous churches in the city of flowers. Besides its familiar name among tourists, it is also known by other names such as Mai Anh Church (named after the cherry blossom trees that once flourished in the area) and Vincent Church (as it serves as the chapel for the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul).
Domaine de Marie Church is one of the three most famous churches in the city of flowers. Source: HomePaylater
Domaine de Marie, affectionately known by locals as Mai Anh Church, is an architectural complex consisting of a main chapel and a convent of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul. Constructed between 1940 and 1944, the church bears the hallmark of classic European architecture - especially French - reflecting the strong colonial influence France left on Da Lat during its rule.
The first thing that captures visitors’ attention is its distinct pink hue that covers the entire church. Unlike the soft pastel pinks often seen elsewhere, Domaine de Marie stands out with a deep rose color, boldly contrasting the lush greenery around it- like a precious gem nestled in the heart of the misty city. The church’s tall, triangular roof topped with red tiles, along with its ornate stained glass windows and high arched doorways, evokes the charm of rural French churches from a distant past.
A Touch of French Architecture Amidst the Highland City. Source: Mia.vn
Beyond its stunning architecture, Domaine de Marie is also a tranquil spiritual haven - where both locals and visitors can find a moment of peace and reflection amid the bustle of daily life. Inside, the church features a modest yet solemn main hall. The most striking feature is the statue of the Virgin Mary, carved from stone and gifted by Madame Jean Decoux, the wife of the former Governor-General of French Indochina. The statue bears gentle, Eastern facial features, creating a sense of closeness and familiarity with the Vietnamese people.
One remarkable aspect of Domaine de Marie is that it remains home to the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, who continue their religious life and service here each day. These nuns not only preserve the sanctity of the space but also carry out charitable work - caring for orphans and supporting the underprivileged in the community. Their quiet presence, in simple brown habits, adds a living soul to the church and embodies its enduring spirit of compassion.
A Sacred and Serene Space. Source: Home Pay Later
Originally, Domaine de Marie Church served as the main convent for over 50 nuns, who carried out various social activities such as running a kindergarten and an orphanage. While the main order has since relocated to Ho Chi Minh City, the church continues to uphold its mission of helping those in need. For example, it still operates a facility for orphaned children, provides care for those with developmental disabilities, offers medical treatment for the poor, and runs a free vocational training center.
In addition to the chapel and two convent buildings, the church also utilizes its other spaces for community welfare activities. Visitors can not only buy local Da Lat specialties as souvenirs, but they can also purchase items handmade by orphaned children or contribute to supporting disadvantaged children at the souvenir stall located behind the church.
Domaine de Marie Church served as the main convent for over 50 nuns. Source: LamDong360
Thanks to its unique architecture and poetic surroundings, Domaine de Marie has long been a favorite check-in location for young travelers and photography lovers alike. Along its stone-paved paths, tall pine trees stand proudly, while rows of blooming crape myrtles, hydrangeas, and wild sunflowers light up the space with seasonal colors - creating a picture-perfect backdrop to capture unforgettable moments. Whether you visit in the early morning mist or under the golden hue of a sunset, the church radiates a breathtaking beauty.
You don’t have to be Catholic to feel at peace here. A quiet stroll through the lush grounds, resting on time worn stone steps, or simply gazing at the church’s rosy roof as it peeks through Da Lat’s drifting fog can bring a sense of calm and serenity to anyone.
A Dreamy Photo Spot for Every Visitor. Source: Tony Wedding
Domaine de Marie Church is located at No. 1, Ngo Quyen Street, Ward 6, Da Lat City - just about 1 km from the city center. Getting there is easy and convenient: you can take a leisurely 15-20 minute walk from Da Lat Market, or opt for a quick ride by motorbike or taxi.
There’s no entrance fee, and the church is open daily for visitors to explore, take photos, or even attend mass if they wish. For those who enjoy a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere, visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is ideal. During major holidays like Christmas, the church is beautifully decorated and often holds public ceremonies, offering a special chance to experience its solemn and festive spirit.
Getting to Domaine de Marie. Source: Nu cuoi Me Kong
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Although Domaine de Marie is a popular tourist attraction, it remains a sacred and respectful place. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, keep noise to a minimum, and avoid disturbing the peaceful atmosphere of the church and convent. Photography is allowed, but please refrain from using drones or loud equipment that may disrupt the serenity of the area.
If you’re curious about the daily life and charitable work of the nuns, you can contact the convent directly. They also sell handmade items such as fruit preserves, knitted sweaters, and scarves - thoughtful souvenirs that also help support their community efforts.
A Few Tips for Visiting. Source: Du lich con voi
What truly sets Domaine de Marie apart from other churches in Da Lat is the feeling it evokes. It may not be as grand as the Chicken Church or as ancient as Truc Lam Monastery, but it possesses a charm all its own - gentle, classical, serene, and deeply familiar. Its beauty lies in the harmonious blend of French architecture and Vietnamese soul, in the quiet reverence of faith infused with the simplicity of the Central Highlands.
Stepping through its weathered brown wooden gate feels like entering a different world - where time slows down and hearts find stillness. The sound of church bells echoing through the pine trees reminds visitors of the enduring presence of faith, of kindness, and of timeless values in a world that often moves too fast.
Domaine de Marie - More Than Just a Church. Source: Puolo Trip
If you're planning a trip to Da Lat, be sure to set aside a peaceful morning or afternoon to visit Domaine de Marie. You don’t need much preparation - just an open heart and eyes that appreciate beauty. Here, you'll experience the calm and gentleness that this place offers - one of Da Lat’s unspoken "specialties" that captures the essence of the dreamy city.
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