ON THE RESTORATION OF HISTORICAL CHURCHES IN VIETNAM

- The case of Phat Ngoai church in Xu Phat Diem -

Abstract

There are many historical churches in northern Vietnam. They were built according to the traditional technique prevalent in the region. Many of them have become dilapidated and need to be restored, recently. In Xu Phat Diem, some late 19th century timber-framed churches are currently being restored. However, there appears to be some problems with regard to the method of restoration used; these problems are caused by the traditional practices followed by the Vietnamese construction industry. Therefore, we report the current situation with regard to the restoration of the Phát Ngoại church as an example, and then concentrate on the problems.