Sacred Heart Cathedral

The Sacred Heart Cathedral stands on the site of the original residence of the Viceroy of Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces. That building was destroyed during the Second Opium War, and the land was eventually ceded to a group of French Catholics.

Covering a floor area of 2,750 square metres (29,600 square feet) and with an nave 27 metres (89 feet) high, this twin-spired Roman Catholic cathedral is one of the largest of its type in China and Southeast Asia. The massive towers reach a height of 59 metres (194 feet).

The granite structure was built entirely by hand, a process that took 25 years. So much granite went into the construction of the walls, pillars and arches that the building has also been known as Shishi Cathedral shishi is the Mandarin term for stone.

Many people think this majestic place of worship was modelled on the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, but its facade was actually based on the Basilica of St. Clotilde, also in Paris.

Start your visit by walking round the structure and observing the facades and their ornate details. Focus your camera on the gargoyles, the carved stone grotesque figures on the cathedral. See how their design, which is based on that developed in medieval Europe, has been influenced by Chinese styles.

Inside the cathedral, stop and marvel at the huge vaulted archways. Admire the colourful stained-glass windows, decorated with scenes from the Bible, and stop by some of the chapels to see the carvings on the wooden confessional boxes. Sit on one of the pews and spend a few minutes taking in the immense sights, such as the elaborate chandeliers.

Located in the old town on the north bank of the Pearl River, the Sacred Heart Cathedral is easily accessible by bus or metro. Masses are conducted in Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean and English. Some of the services are often standing-room only.