Beijing Xuanwumen Church

Beijing Xuanwumen Church, also known as the South Church, is a significant Catholic cathedral with a rich history dating back to 1605, though the current Baroque-style building was completed in 1904. It is the oldest Catholic church in Beijing. The cathedral features statues of St. Francis Xavier and Matteo Ricci at its entrance, and a large painting of the Immaculate Conception behind the altar. While originally adorned with stained glass, these were lost during the Cultural Revolution and are gradually being restored. Services are held in Chinese, English, French, and Italian. The church is conveniently located near the Xuanwumen subway station.