Cha Tam Church – A Historic Landmark in Cho Lon

📍 Location: 25 Hoc Lac, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
🕰 Opening Hours: Daily, dawn to dusk
💰 Entry: Free

A Church with a Tumultuous Past

Tucked away in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, Cha Tam Church stands out with its slender spire, cheerful yellow walls, and an Oriental-style outer gate—a rare blend of Catholic and Chinese architectural elements. However, beyond its serene façade, this church holds a pivotal place in Vietnamese history.

On November 1, 1963, President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother Ngo Dinh Nhu sought refuge here after being ousted in a military coup. The next morning, after surrendering via telephone, they were arrested by ARVN soldiers and executed before reaching central Saigon—an event that marked the end of their rule.

Explore the Church’s Hidden Corners

If you can find the janitor (who often lingers around, hoping for a small tip), you may get access to:
🔔 The Belfry – Climb up for a Quasimodo-like experience and enjoy stunning views over Cho Lon, standing alongside a statue of St. Francis Xavier.
⛪ The Historic Pew – The janitor can also show you the very seat where Diem and Nhu sat in prayer as they awaited their fate.

A Must-Visit in Ho Chi Minh City

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or cultural fusion, Cha Tam Church is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s past.