The Ruined Church (Nhà Thờ Đổ): A Dramatic Coastal Relic
Introduction to the "Fallen" Church
The Ruined Church (Nhà Thờ Đổ), officially the Church of Saint Maria Madalena, stands as one of Nam Dinh’s most striking and unique destinations. Located on the edge of Xuong Dien Beach in Hai Ly Commune, Hai Hau District, this skeletal structure captivates visitors with its haunting beauty and dramatic setting. Indeed, locals often call it the “Heart Church” (Nhà Thờ Trái Tim) due to its former parish, but the constant erosion now gives it the name “Ruined Church.” It serves as a stark yet beautiful symbol of the relentless power of nature over man-made structures.
History of Erosion and Abandonment
The story of the Ruined Church is one of faith and loss, defined by coastal erosion.
Original Construction: A French architect designed the church, which the Xuong Dien Parish completed in 1943. It featured meticulous European-style architecture, with high pillars and soft arches. The church once stood approximately 800 meters from the shoreline, serving as a beacon of faith and a guiding light for local fishermen.
Natural Impact: Starting around 1996, the coastline began a severe and persistent erosion process, causing the sea to encroach deep into the mainland. Consequently, the surrounding villages and the entire coastal church complex—which originally included several structures—gradually disappeared.
The Abandonment: After a powerful hurricane in 2005, the church suffered heavy damage. With the building no longer safe or usable, the parish abandoned the site. Today, only the bell tower, foundation, and some weathered walls remain, standing bravely against the tides. When the tide rises, seawater completely surrounds the ruins, covering the foundation and creating a magical, isolated appearance.
Visitor Experience and Local Life
The site is not just a ruin; it is a vibrant cultural area where the past and present coastal life converge.
Photography Magnet: The church’s decaying structure, covered in moss and exposed brick, offers an unparalleled backdrop for photography. Therefore, many young travelers and professional photographers, especially wedding photographers, flock here.
Best Time to Visit: To capture the most atmospheric photos, plan your visit for sunrise (around 5:00 AM) or sunset (around 6:00 PM). During these times, the lighting dramatically enhances the ruins, and you can simultaneously witness the local fishing community in action, pulling in their nets or preparing to set out to sea.
Local Culture: The beach surrounding the church remains an active local fishing area. Visitors can observe the daily life of the fishermen and purchase fresh seafood directly from the boats, offering a genuine taste of Nam Dinh’s coastal culture.
Essential Logistics for Travelers
Respecting the site and its environment is paramount when visiting this historical ruin.
Address: To Dân Phố 13 (Residential Group 13), Hai Ly Commune, Hai Hau District, Nam Dinh, Vietnam. (Located on Xuong Dien Beach).
Entrance Fee & Contact: The site does not charge an entrance fee, as it is an exposed historical ruin on the coast. No official contact number is available for the ruin itself, but you can coordinate with local tour operators in Nam Dinh City or Hai Hau Town.
Travel Tip: Currently, local authorities have constructed protective barriers around the remaining structure to prevent further collapse. Visitors should respect these boundaries and must not climb on the fragile walls to ensure safety and conservation.
Getting There: The Ruined Church is about 40 km from Nam Dinh City. Most travelers hire a local taxi or ride a motorbike to reach the Hai Ly beach area. Look for signs toward Thị Trấn Cồn (Con Town) and then follow directions to Văn Lý or Nhà Thờ Đổ.
