Located in Baoding, People's Republic of China, Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral (圣伯多禄圣保禄主教座堂) is a historic house of worship serving as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Baoding. If you are exploring the region's rich cultural heritage, this site offers a compelling look into local history and religious architecture. The cathedral's origins trace back to the aftermath of the 1900 Boxer Rebellion, a violent uprising across northern China during which many Catholics fled Baoding—some traveling to nearby Donglu—and numerous churches were burned.
French missionaries returned to Baoding following the conflict and constructed the original church building in 1905, dedicating it to Saints Peter and Paul. Just five years later, in 1910, the Diocese of Baoding was officially created, prompting an expansion of the church to elevate it to its current status as the diocesan cathedral. When you visit today, you will be standing at a recognized cultural treasure, as the structure is officially listed among the provincial cultural protection sites for Hebei.
It stands as an enduring testament to the area's resilience, early 20th-century history, and international missionary legacy, making it an essential stop for travelers interested in Hebei's provincial heritage.
What to see at St Peter and St Paul, Baoding
- Cathedral church of the Diocese of Baoding
- Constructed in 1905 by French missionaries
- Expanded in 1910 upon the creation of the diocese
- Listed as a provincial cultural protection site for Hebei
Visiting tips
Keep in mind that the cathedral's history is deeply connected to the 1900 Boxer Rebellion and nearby Donglu.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
St Peter and St Paul, Baoding is easy to reach on Baoding’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Nanzhuangtou and Xiadu. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Baoding travel guide.
See the full Baoding travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.