A secluded little chapel - Xizhimen Catholic Church

Address: No. 130, Xizhimen Inner Street, Xicheng District, Beijing There is a church on Xizhimen Inner Street called the Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Holy Robe, commonly known as Xitang. It features classic Gothic architecture, a unique style, and a relatively small area, which makes it inconspicuous against the backdrop of surrounding buildings. Xitang was built by an Italian priest named Father Teodorico Pedrini in 1723 with his own salary. It was demolished in 1811 during the Jiaqing Emperor's ban on Christianity, rebuilt in 1867 by Bishop Armand David, and later burned down by the Boxers. In 1912, it was restored to its original appearance through funds raised by Sister Marie de la Providence. What we see now is the result of another renovation in 2008. The entrance walls are inlaid with stone tablets that record the history of Xitang, one side in Chinese and the other in Latin. Upon entering, the first thing you see is a blue and white octagonal baptismal font, which is unique to Xitang. At the very front of the central axis is the altar, with a marble floor and an altar that resembles a triptych of a golden pointed arch coronation of the Virgin Mary. The colored pointed windows on both sides of the side aisles are very beautiful, said to be custom-ordered from abroad, depicting the history of salvation and the deeds of saints. The entire interior of the building is cool and quiet, making it very comfortable. Friends who are interested may come and visit.