Domaine de Marie Church

Domaine de Marie Church, also known as the Cherry Church (Nhà Thờ Mai Anh in Vietnamese), is one of the most distinctive and beautiful Catholic churches in Da Lat, Vietnam. Located on a hill about 1 kilometer southwest of the city center, the church is not only a place of worship but also a prominent architectural and historical landmark. Surrounded by blooming cherry blossom trees and pine forests, Domaine de Marie Church combines French colonial style with traditional Vietnamese elements, making it a peaceful and photogenic attraction for both spiritual and casual visitors.

How to Reach Domaine de Marie Church, Da Lat

Reaching Domaine de Marie Church is simple and convenient due to its close proximity to the heart of Da Lat:

• By Taxi: A short 5-minute drive from the city center. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available.
• By Motorbike or Bicycle: Ideal for those who enjoy exploring. The roads leading to the church are well-maintained and offer lovely views.
• On Foot: If you're staying near the center, you can easily walk to the church within 15–20 minutes while enjoying the fresh air and hilly surroundings.

Weather at Domaine de Marie Church, Da Lat

Da Lat enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year, and Domaine de Marie Church shares the same pleasant weather:

• Dry Season (November to April): Cool and sunny—ideal for sightseeing, photography, and walking around the gardens.
• Rainy Season (May to October): Lush and green with occasional afternoon showers. The church appears more vibrant, especially in the mist.

Temperatures generally range from 15°C to 25°C, making the church a comfortable and refreshing destination year-round.

Timing and Entry Details

Domaine de Marie Church is open to the public daily:

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Mass Times: Typically held at 5:15 AM and 5:15 PM on weekdays, and multiple services on Sundays.

Entry Fee: There is no entrance fee to visit the church. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and attend mass if they wish, but are asked to dress modestly and behave respectfully.

Why Domaine de Marie Church is Famous

Domaine de Marie Church is famous for its unique architectural blend and picturesque surroundings. The church features a pink exterior with high-pitched roofs that resemble traditional Vietnamese stilt houses. The cherry blossom trees that surround the church bloom beautifully in spring, earning it the nickname "Cherry Church."

Apart from its architecture and location, the church is part of a religious complex that includes a convent and an orphanage run by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul. This gives the site a deeper spiritual and humanitarian importance. Many visitors are drawn not just by the beauty of the building but also by the calm and charitable spirit of the place.

History and Architecture

The Domaine de Marie Church was built in the late 1940s during French colonial rule and was officially completed in 1944. Its construction was funded in part by Madame Jean Decoux, the wife of the then French governor-general of Indochina. She later passed away in Da Lat and was buried behind the church, and her tomb remains on the grounds as a historical monument.

Architecturally, the church is a blend of 17th-century French design and local Central Highlands influence. The steep roofs, rose-colored walls, and stained-glass windows are distinctly European, while the triangular archways and roof design resemble traditional Vietnamese communal houses. The result is a harmonious and elegant structure that stands out among other religious buildings in the region.

Things to Do at Domaine de Marie Church

There are several enjoyable and meaningful activities for visitors at Domaine de Marie Church:

• Explore the Church Interior: The interior is simple yet beautiful, featuring wooden pews, a large crucifix, and religious statues. Visitors can quietly sit and reflect or attend mass.
• Photography: The pink exterior, blooming gardens, and classic French-Vietnamese architecture make it a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts.
• Walk Around the Garden: The church is surrounded by a well-maintained garden with pine trees, flower beds, and scenic views of the city below.
• Visit the Orphanage: The nuns run an orphanage and sometimes sell handmade souvenirs to raise funds. Purchasing these supports a good cause.
• Learn Local History: Information about Madame Decoux, the church's founding, and its connection to colonial history is often shared by local guides.

Interesting Facts about Domaine de Marie Church

• The church is often called “Cherry Church” because of the cherry blossom trees that bloom around it in spring.
• The building is situated on Mai Anh hill, which gives it both a serene environment and panoramic views of Da Lat.
• Madame Decoux, who helped fund the church, is buried in a small tomb behind the sanctuary.
• The church continues to function actively as a place of worship and community service, particularly through its orphanage and educational outreach.
• The pink façade, unusual for a religious structure, makes it one of the most photographed churches in Vietnam.

Tips for Visiting Domaine de Marie Church, Da Lat

• Dress respectfully when visiting—avoid sleeveless shirts, short skirts, or beachwear.
• If attending mass, arrive early to find a seat and observe quietly, even if you're not Catholic.
• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and peaceful atmosphere.
• Respect the nuns’ privacy—photography inside the convent or orphanage is not allowed without permission.
• Support the orphanage by purchasing small items or making a donation if you can.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Lam Ty Ni Pagoda or Da Lat Market for a full day of exploring Da Lat's cultural and spiritual heritage.