Former French Mission Building — Attraction in Hong Kong

The Former French Mission Building is an iconic structure in Hong Kong with a rich history. Located at 1 Battery Path in Central, it offers an architectural glimpse into the city's colonial past amid the modern skyscrapers. Here's an overview:

Former French Mission Building, Hong Kong

Historical Significance:

Origins: The building was originally constructed in 1842-43 as the residence for the commander of the British Forces in Hong Kong. Over the years, it underwent several alterations and expansions. French Mission: The property was transferred to the French Mission in the 1910s and was used by them until the 1950s. It's during their tenure that the building got its name. Architecture:

Design: The Former French Mission Building is a prime example of neo-classical architecture. With its granite facade, arched windows, and pitched roofs, the structure stands as a symbol of Hong Kong's colonial heritage. Preservation: Despite the rapid modernization of Hong Kong, this building has been well-preserved and serves as a reminder of the city's multi-faceted history. Current Use:

After being used by the French Mission, the building has housed various government departments. As of my last update in 2021, it was the home of the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal. It's a testament to the building's architectural and functional adaptability that it has been repurposed to serve the city in various capacities over the years. Location:

Strategically located in Central, the building is juxtaposed against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers, creating a unique blend of old and new. This makes it a picturesque spot for both locals and tourists. Conclusion: The Former French Mission Building is not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of Hong Kong's rich tapestry of history. It's a must-visit for those interested in architecture, history, or those simply wishing to see a different side of the city.

If you're planning to visit, it's always a good idea to check the current status or any ongoing renovations, as historical buildings like these often undergo...

The Former French Mission Building is a declared monument in Hong Kong and nice opportunity to view one of the few preserved buildings from the colonial period. Situated upon the elevated landscape on Battery Path, this structure was constructed in 1915, made of granite and red/orange brick in Neo-classical style.

Today this building continues to be used by the local administration, serving as the Hong Kong Court of Appeals. While not a conventional tourist attraction, it does remain an interesting and attractive building to see and is a constant reminder of Hong Kong's early 20th century past.

It is interesting to imagine this building at this elevated position, overlooking the Central district below all the way to Victoria Harbour - views that would have existed during the first half of the 20th century. Those days are long gone and those views long since blocked by the skyscrapers which dominate the Hong Kong Skyline today.

If you stop by The Former French Mission Building in the Central District for a look around, it is also worth making way to St. John's Cathedral just a minute or two away. This is another declared monument worth seeing if you enjoy architecture and seeing...

The Former French Mission Building (Chinese: 前法國外方傳道會大樓) is a declared monument located on Government Hill at 1, Battery Path, Central, Hong Kong. It housed the Court of Final Appeal of Hong Kong from 1 July 1997 to 6 September 2015.1]

The building is built on a podium due to the hilly nature of Government Hill. Originally a mansion called Johnston House, the building was altered in the 1870s and 1880s to a three-storey building. The present three-storey building opened in 1917 as the result of a major renovation, also described as an "extensive rebuilding", of the previous structure.[2 The building is probably based on a previous structure near the site known as "Beaconsfield", but it is clad in red brick rather than an all white facade.[4] It is constructed in granite and red bricks in Neo-Classical style,[1] dating from the...