Main Building of Former Tianjin College of Industry and Commerce

The main building of the former college is a European-inspired structure with stone pillars, symmetrical layout, and richly ornamented facade spanning multiple floors. The roof and upper levels display classical proportions that set it apart from the surrounding urban landscape.

The building was founded in 1921 by French Jesuits and served as part of the second Catholic university in China, known as the Institut des Hautes Études Industrielles et Commerciales de Tientsin. After major postwar changes, its programs merged with Tianjin University and Nankai University in 1952.

The building reflects French educational architecture from the early 20th century, blending European design traditions with local institutional needs of that era. Walking around it, you notice how Western school buildings took on their own character in this setting.

The exterior is accessible to visitors who wish to see the preserved architecture and grounds. It helps to visit early in the day when it is less crowded, especially on weekends.

The building underwent multiple shifts in status from private to public ownership before becoming part of Tianjin's modern university system. This transformation makes it a significant record of educational change during a turbulent period.