Catholicism was introduced to Vietnam in the 16th century by Portuguese and Spanish missionaries, notably Jesuit priests. The religion gained followers, particularly among the Vietnamese elite, despite facing resistance from local authorities and traditional beliefs. Throughout the centuries, Catholicism experienced periods of growth and persecution, especially during the Nguyen Dynasty. By the 20th century, Vietnam had a significant Catholic population, with the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City and the Archdiocese of Hanoi being prominent centers of the faith. Today, Catholicism remains one of the largest religions in Vietnam.