Born in Shanghai, Xu Guangqi (1562-1633) was a famous scientist at the end of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). In 1600, Xu came across Matteo Ricci (1552-1610), who came from Italy. In 1603, two years after meeting Ricci, Xu was baptized a Christian.

Under Ricci's tutelage, Xu learned about science and translated the first six volumes of the Principles of Geometry, followed by the Principles of Surveying, and the Principles of Hook and Thigh. Xu recommended advanced military defense techniques and advocated weather tracking as a means to improve the country's agriculture and trade. Xu was a paramount figure in the fields of science and culture of China. He liked the western science and technology and finished several translation works. He was also the writer of Nongzheng Quanshu (Complete Treatise on Agriculture), one of four greatest agricultural books in China.

Xu was buried at Fahuating and Zhaojiabin in Shanghai. As the home of his descendents, the place was named Xujiahui, meaning Xu's residence . The tomb yard was restored in 1957 with a marble statue of Xu installed in front of the tomb and a stele corridor in the east with 12 paintings, writings and inscriptions made by Xu.

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