Wangfujing Cathedral

**Wangfujing Cathedral (St. Joseph's Church) — A Blend of History and Culture** **1. Introduction** Wangfujing Cathedral, officially known as St. Joseph's Church, is located at 74 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing. It is one of the four major Catholic churches in Beijing (along with Xishiku Church, Xuanwumen Church, and Xizhimen Church). Due to its location, it is commonly known as "Dongtang" (East Church) and is an important symbol of Beijing's history and religious culture. **2. History** - **Founding and Early History**: Founded in 1655 by Italian Jesuit missionaries Lodovico Buglio and Gabriel de Magalhães, it was originally the second Catholic church in Beijing. - **Trials and Reconstructions**: - Damaged by an earthquake in 1720 and restored the following year. - Demolished by the Qing government in 1807 (during the reign of Emperor Jiaqing) due to church conflicts. - Completely burned down during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900. - Rebuilt in 1904 with funding from French and Irish churches, and completed in its present form in 1905. **3. Architectural Features** - **Style**: Primarily Romanesque architecture with some Baroque elements. The main structure is built of gray brick with white marble decorations. The facade features three symmetrical and majestic domed bell towers, with the central dome soaring high. - **Interior Decoration**: Arched domes and stained-glass windows depict biblical stories. The altar enshrines a statue of St. Joseph, creating a sacred atmosphere. **4. Current Status and Functions** - **Religious Activities**: Mass is held daily, with large ceremonies on Sundays and Catholic holidays (such as Christmas and Easter), attracting both believers and tourists. - **Cultural Landmark**: A popular spot for wedding photography, it often hosts cultural exhibitions, serving as a window for cultural exchange between China and the West. **5. Visiting Information** - **Opening Hours**: Open daily. Check the latest announcements for specific times (usually 8:00 am–5:00 pm). - **Mass Times**: Weekday mornings and evenings, multiple sessions on Sundays (Chinese/English), and Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. - **Transportation**: - Subway: Line 1 to Wangfujing Station, Line 5 to Dengshikou Station. - Bus: Routes 103, 104, and Special 11 to "Dengshixikou" or "Wangfujing" station. **6. Nearby Attractions** - **Wangfujing Shopping Street**: A hub for shopping and dining, adjacent to Beijing APM and the Department Store. - **Old Beijing Charm**: Walk to Dongtangzi Hutong and the National Art Museum of China to experience the cultural heritage. **7. Important Notes** - Dress respectfully and maintain silence inside the church. - Photography is allowed outside of Mass times, but avoid using flash. - Respect the liturgy during Mass and silence your phone. **Cultural Significance** St. Joseph's Church not only carries the faith of Beijing's Catholics but also stands as a witness to the cultural exchange and conflicts between China and the West in modern times. Its architectural beauty and rich history make it a must-visit destination for exploring Beijing's diverse culture.