Wanghailou Church’s blocky towers and stern façade may not appear remarkable at first glance, but its distinctly European style of architecture sets it apart from the surrounding buildings. Step inside the church’s interior, where the quiet atmosphere contrasts strongly with the building’s tumultuous history.
Originally built by the French in the late 19th century, the church was modeled after Notre Dame de Paris and named Notre Dame des Victoires. It was the first church built in Tianjin as Catholicism spread to the city. Admire its Gothic-style architecture, including three towers with a middle belfry, which define the façade.
Spend time exploring the church, which is actually the third incarnation built on the site. The first building was destroyed only a year after its construction in an event known as the Tianjin Church Incident or the Tianjin Massacre. A rumor spread around the city that the church was abusing children, leading residents to burn down the building and slaughter many missionaries and foreigners. The church was destroyed again during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900 and once more during a major earthquake in 1976.
Inspect the church’s dark stone façade, which remains quite similar to its original design despite the reconstructions it has undergone over the years. The cross on top of the church was removed during the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s, but was later returned by the Tianjin government in the 1990s.
The church stands 33 feet (10 meters) high, 98 feet (30 meters) long and 33 feet (10 meters) wide. Be sure to stop by in the evening, when it looks particularly lovely illuminated against the night sky.
Wanghailou Church is located on the northern bank of the Hai River, in the northwest part of Tianjin. You’ll find it within walking distance of the Shizilin Bridge and the Ancient Culture Street. To get here, take the subway to Jinshiqiao station.
