Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Introduction
The elegant church often seen in television commercials is actually the largest cathedral in Taiwan - the "Cathedral of the Virgin of the Rosary." Located near the banks of the Love River, the Cathedral of the Virgin of the Rosary was founded in 1859 and is the first church established by the Catholic Church in Taiwan after the reopening of missionary work. It is also the birthplace of modern Catholicism in Taiwan, serving as a pillar of faith for countless residents in the southern region for over a century. Today, 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 resembles that of European Gothic churches, incorporating some Romanesque elements. Its towering spires, arched windows, and rose windows embody the characteristics of Gothic architecture, presenting a beautiful and magnificent appearance. The interior is divided into the nave and two side aisles by seven pairs of columns, with the spaces between the side galleries and the ceiling formed by ribbed arches. The altar is uniquely designed in an octagonal circular format. Above the main entrance is an inscription from the Qing Dynasty, flanked by the coats of arms of the Pope and the Cardinal. The Cathedral of the Virgin of the Rosary is also one of the three major cathedrals in Asia, with its elegant exterior and solemn interior creating a distinctive style within the modern urban landscape. In 2001, it was voted the top historical building in Taiwan. Both in terms of its religious significance and its artistic architectural value, it holds an extremely important position.