According to Priest Ignatio Ho Van Xuan, head of the restoration committee, the two crosses will be blessed before a crane lifts them onto the cathedral's two towers at 9h. The night before, the restoration team completed preparations, including structural surveys and setting up protective frameworks to ensure safety.
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The two crosses, over 3,7 m high and weighing 400 kg, were blessed and displayed inside Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral for public viewing on the afternoon of 8/12. Photo: Thanh Tung |
The new crosses are meticulously replicated according to the original design of the two crosses that stood on the zinc spire since 1894. The original crosses were removed three years ago for restoration but were found to be severely damaged and beyond repair.
These Catholic symbols are made of steel, fabricated by Altri Tempi Company in Belgium over two years, and transported to Ho Chi Minh City by sea in 5 weeks. A manufacturer of ultra-thin gold leaf, with a history dating back to 1600, applied the external gold plating. The two crosses were on display inside Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral from early 12/2025.
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The two crosses before the cathedral's restoration. Photo: Quynh Tran |
Notre Dame Cathedral, a prominent landmark in the city center, was constructed in 1877 and completed three years later, based on the design by architect J. Bourard. In 1959, the Vatican designated it a minor basilica. The structure stands 60,5 m tall, featuring a 26 m zinc spire and an 11 m bell tower. As a popular tourist destination, especially during Christmas and Tet holidays, the cathedral began a major restoration project in 2017 after over 130 years of use led to significant deterioration of many components.
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The nearly 130-year-old cross was removed from the cathedral's zinc spire in 3/2023. Photo: Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City |
After nine years of ongoing construction, the restoration project has completed repairs on the roof tiles and both towers. Starting in late 12/2025, scaffolding will be installed inside the sanctuary to address damp and damaged wall sections, along with several main structures. The entire renovation is expected to be completed in 2027.
Dinh Van
