Xuanwu Gate Catholic Church, also known as the South Church, is a historic landmark located at No. 141 Qianmen West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing. It stands as one of the earliest Catholic churches in the city, with its roots tracing back to 1605. The current structure, which was constructed in 1904, boasts a three-story Baroque architectural style.
The main hall of the South Church is a Gothic arch-shaped building, spanning an area of approximately 1300 square meters. Ancillary buildings add another 400 square meters to the complex. The roof is vaulted, and the facade is adorned with intricate brick carvings. The column tops feature wood-carved relief patterns that are gilded, adding to the church’s grandeur. A large oil painting of the Virgin Mary presides over the altar, complementing the stained glass windows that imbue the space with a sense of magnificence and luxury.
Within the South Church, two stone tablets from the original church remain. One of these is an inscription by Emperor Shunzhi of the Qing Dynasty, which, though barely legible, is embedded in the walls on either side of the main hall. Additionally, the iron cross that once stood on the west wall of the hall, about 12 feet high, is considered one of the earliest relics of the South Church.
The church welcomes visitors throughout the year, with opening hours from 08:00 to 11:30 and 14:00 to 17:00. However, it is advised to check the specific opening hours posted on-site at the scenic spot, as they may vary.
