Cathedral of the Sacred Rose Introduction
Often seen in television advertisements, an elegantly styled church may appear to be filming in a foreign country, but it is actually the largest cathedral in Taiwan - the "Cathedral of the Holy Rosary." Located near the Love River, the Holy Rosary Church was founded in 1859 and is the first church established by the Catholic Church in Taiwan following the re-establishment of Catholicism. It is also the birthplace of modern Catholicism in Taiwan and has served as a pillar of faith for countless people in the southern region for over a century. Currently, it serves as the cathedral of the Kaohsiung Diocese and is one of the three major cathedrals in Asia. The overall architectural style of the cathedral is reminiscent of European Gothic churches, mixed with elements of Romanesque style. Its towering spires, arched windows, and rose windows showcase the elegance of Gothic architecture, being both beautiful and grand. The interior is divided into a central nave and two side aisles by seven pairs of columns, with cross-ribbed vaults between the side galleries and the ceiling. The altar features a unique octagonal design, offering distinctive aesthetic appeal. Above the main entrance, there is a plaque from the Qing Dynasty, flanked by the papal and cardinal coats of arms. The Holy Rosary Church is one of the three major cathedrals in Asia, noted for its elegant exterior and solemn internal scenery, making it stand out amidst modern urban architecture. In 2001, it won first place in the national historical building selection in Taiwan. Its significance is paramount in both religious status and architectural artistic value.
