Ningbo Gothic-style Cathedral to Reopen after Repair

Recently, one of China's oldest cathedrals - The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart - announced that it will reopen soon after the completed inspection and acceptance by Zhejiang's authority and experts in the east Chinese city of Ningbo, according to the Ethnic and Religious Affaris Committee of Zhejiang Province.

Made of bricks and wood, the cathedral was built in the Old Bund of Jiangbei District by a French bishop in 1872.

As a key cultural relic under state-level protection for great historical and architectural value, it was damaged by a fire in July 2014, which gained nationwide attention. One year later, the overall repair operation kicked off under the principle of keeping it in its original building style.

It is said to be a landmark and a holy land to shoot wedding photos for young couples. Moreover, the cathedral has been a part of the residents' life for years. 

The church consists of a bishop office, a Gothic-style bell tower at the height of around 30 meters, a parish church, a monastery and a side house.