Shanghai Xujiahui Catholic Church is to reopen after more than two years’close and renovation. Verification through a large number of historical documents and exquisite repair craftsmanship help recreate the historic features of the Gothic structure and reproduce its magnificence.

Located at Puxi Street in Shanghai's Xuhui District, it is the largest Catholic Church in the city and China's first western-style church.

With red walls, white stone columns and slate roofs, as well as the two cloud-kissing bell towers that face each other, it has become an important building in Shanghai.

Done in a style imitating the Gothic style of France in the Middle Ages, it was first built in 1905 and was at the time known as the number one architecture of Shanghai for its large scale, graceful shape and superb workmanship. It has been listed as one of the protected cultural heritage in Shanghai Municipality.

Over the past century, the church has witnessed shifts and changes of time, and several repairs of the facades and frame have already altered somewhat some of its original features. The latest renovation has done lots of work in preservation and improvements.

It is expected that the church is to reopen to the public on December 16 and to hold a grand ceremonial event this Christmas.