The St. Joseph's Church or East Church was built during the rule of Emperor Shunzhi during the Qing Dynasty, making it the second church ever built in Beijing, the first being the South Church. The building seen today dates back to 1904. During the 1980s, a large scale renovation effort was carried out through the government in order to maintain and repair the church. Another restoration effort was started in May of 2009. The main additions to the church in its latest repair were lighting fixtures which illuminate the whole building at night, showing off its beauty and grandeur.
