A new exhibition hall dedicated to preserving historic architecture in Shinan district, Qingdao, officially opened to the public on June 25. As a cultural landmark that offers free entry, the venue offers visitors insights into the city's history, culture, and architecture.

Nestled within Zhongshan Park, the museum occupies a former public service site originally built in the early 20th century. Following a meticulous restoration philosophy, the European-style building retains its classic red-tiled roof, warm yellow walls, and sturdy granite base. Craftsmen employed traditional techniques — including hand-chiseled stones sourced from Laoshan Mountain and custom-blended matte paints — to perfectly preserve its authentic century-old charm.

Inside, the exhibition traces Qingdao's urban evolution through a blend of physical displays and digital technology. Visitors can explore more than 30 high-precision, handmade architectural models, including St. Michael's Cathedral, crafted using advanced 3D scanning. A standout section offers an immersive recreation of historic street life along Zhongshan Road, complemented by displays of modern urban renewal successes.

The museum also highlights local architectural ingenuity, detailing unique historical construction methods. To enhance the visitor experience, interactive digital screens provide access to the building's archives, while an 8K ultra-high-definition immersive theater beautifully captures the city's unique coastal character.

By repurposing a historical relic as an engaging public space, the hall surpasses traditional preservation methods. It converts fragmented urban memories into a collective cultural resource, providing an essential glimpse into Qingdao's vibrant history.

The newly opened exhibition hall boasts a meticulously restored European-style facade, serving as a window into Qingdao's storied past. [Photo/WeChat account: qdweishinan]