Xujiahui Cathedral

Overview

St. Ignatius Cathedral in Xujiahui is one of the largest Catholic churches in China. Built in 1910 in a Gothic Revival style with twin 60-meter bell towers, it serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Shanghai.

Highlights

• Gothic Architecture: Pointed arches, rose windows, and flying buttresses transport visitors to a European Gothic cathedral.
• Stained Glass: Restored windows depicting scenes from the life of Christ and Jesuit missionaries in China.
• Twin Spires: The 60-meter red-brick towers are visible from across the Xujiahui interchange.

History

Built by French Jesuits on land they had occupied since 1847, the cathedral was completed in 1910 and could seat 2,500. It was severely damaged during the Cultural Revolution but fully restored in 1980.

Visitor Tips

• Sunday Mass: English-language mass is held on Sunday mornings.
• Photography: The interior is most photogenic on sunny afternoons when light streams through the windows.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.