The former site of Xujiahui Grand Monastery, a building that has gone through vicissitudes, is like a heavy historical scroll, hanging in the streets and alleys of Xuhui District, Shanghai. It stands there quietly, telling the glory and glory of the past, and also witnessing the eventful years and the rise and fall of the Catholic Church in Shanghai.
Built in 1903, this monastery was once the monastery of the Catholic Church in Shanghai and the cathedral of the Diocese of Shanghai. In those years, it was the spiritual home of the monks, who lived a simple and pious monastic life here. They follow strict religious rules and perform daily activities such as prayer, Xi study, and labor. In those years, it was a unique sight to behold the city, attracting countless devotees and tourists to make pilgrimages and sightseeing.
However, over time, the Xujiahui Monastery has undergone many changes. During the Sino-Japanese War, it was occupied by the Japanese army and used as a warehouse and barracks. After the war, the monastery was rebuilt and restored. In those days, it was the hope and sustenance in people's hearts, and it was also an important part of the city's culture.
In recent years, with the development of the city and the improvement of the awareness of cultural heritage protection, the site of Xujiahui Monastery has become an important cultural heritage protection object. **Significant investment has been made in the restoration and conservation of this historic building to ensure that it is well preserved. Today, it has been transformed into a Xuhui District showroom, open to the public.
Here, people can learn about the history and culture of Catholicism in Shanghai, and feel the unique charm of religious architecture.
The site of Xujiahui Monastery is a building with a deep historical and cultural heritage. It has witnessed the development of Catholicism in Shanghai, as well as the changes in the city and the progress of society. It is an integral part of our city and a rare cultural treasure of our society.