The Tam Toa Church Relic in Quang Binh is a significant historical attraction located in the heart of Dong Hoi city, drawing interest from tourists eager to explore. It is one of the oldest churches in Quang Binh, situated on Nguyen Du Street in Dong Hai Ward. Once the church of Tam Toa Parish, it was regarded as one of the most beautiful churches in Vietnam. Unfortunately, during the Vietnam War, it was destroyed by American bombs, leaving only ruins that have been preserved as a war relic.

Built in 1887, Tam Toa Church served as the church for Tam Toa Parish, which originated from Dong Hai parish—one of the first parishes in the history of Catholicism in Vietnam. The church featured Portuguese architectural style. In 1940, it underwent reconstruction to become more spacious and complete. However, following the signing of the Geneva Accords in 1954, most parishioners were forced to migrate to the South. By 1964, the church had suffered severe damage from attacks by the US Air Force and Navy, resulting in its desolation and abandonment.

Between 1964 and 1972, the US Air Force and Navy repeatedly bombed Dong Hoi, flattening much of thetown and damaging Tam Toa Church significantly. The most devastating air raid occurred on February 11, 1965, when the church was hit by a bomb, leaving only the bell tower, which bore numerous bullet holes.

After the war and the unification of Vietnam, the ruins of the church were preserved by the Vietnamese government as a war relic. For many years, it became an unofficial tourist destination. It wasn't until February 26, 1997, that the People's Committee of Quang Binh Province issued Decision No. 143/QD-UB, designating the bell tower area of Tam Toa Church as a War Crimes Relic Site and a Provincial Historical and Cultural Relic that required protection. In the same year, the provincial committee allocated new land approximately 2km from the old church for the construction of a new Tam Toa Quang Binh Church. This new church, which occupies an area of about 6,000 square meters, features a two-story Gothic architecture with a width of 16 meters, a length of 43 meters, and twin towers reaching a height of 35 meters. The new church is located on Thong Nhat Street in Nam Ly Ward, Dong Hoi City.

On April 21, 2006, a ceremony was held, officiated by Bishop Leopoldo Girelli, Bishop Paul Nguyen Thai Hop, Bishop Joseph Vo Duc Minh, priests, monks, and parishioners, marking the laying of the first stone for the new church.

The 10-meter-high Tam Toa Quang Binh Church was constructed next to the Nhat Le River, offering stunning views of the picturesque surroundings. Importantly, this church is also the site where poet Han Mac Tu was baptized as Francois Nguyen Trong Tri in 1912.

Visiting this historic church evokes a sense of nostalgia, as it stands as a reminder of the unique architectural beauty that was lost due to the ravages of war. The remnants of the old church still bear witness to this history, featuring ruined walls and bullet holes in the bell tower. These elements serve as living proof of a challenging period in our nation's past. While there have been debates over whether to restore the church or maintain its current state, the bell tower remains preserved as a testament to the war.

As one of the historical relics, Tam Toa Quang Binh Church is essential in educating future generations about the hardships endured by the nation in its pursuit of independence and freedom. A visit here encourages reflection on the glorious struggle of our nation and fosters gratitude for the freedom we enjoy today.