Located near the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve in Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province, the newly built Lang Van Parish Church stands as one of the largest religious structures in the country.
Construction of the church began in early 2015. Now nearing completion, the church has become a striking architectural landmark in Ninh Binh, a province known for its cultural and natural heritage.
Spanning 94 meters in length and 40 meters in width, the church can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers. Its most prominent feature is the central bell tower, which rises to 110 meters, including the cross, making it one of the tallest bell towers in Vietnam. Flanking the central tower are two symmetrical towers, each standing at around 60 meters.
The church occupies a site of over 14,000 square meters, with a floor area approaching 4,000 square meters. Its layout, seen from above, forms the shape of a Christian cross.
Designed in the Gothic style, the structure features pointed arches and soaring vaults, distinct from the rounded arches of Romanesque architecture. It also includes an underground hall, approximately 1,000 square meters in size and 15 meters deep, with space for up to 800 people. This lower level is intended for community gatherings and can serve as a shelter if necessary.
The church is situated near the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, the largest inland wetland conservation area in northern Vietnam. The reserve is famous for its untouched scenery and rich biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy boat rides through limestone karst formations after exploring the church.
Other popular destinations are not far from the site, including the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, making the area ideal for day trips or weekend visits that combine nature, history, and religious architecture.
