Alopen

Alopen was a Persian Christian missionary who is traditionally recognized as the first recorded Christian missionary to China during the Tang Dynasty around 635 CE. He played a significant role in introducing Christianity to China, bringing along religious texts and establishing early Christian communities. Alopen's arrival marked the beginning of a Christian presence in China, influencing cultural and religious exchanges between Persia, Central Asia, and China. His efforts laid the groundwork for future interactions between Christianity and Chinese society, highlighting the historical spread of Christianity along the Silk Road during a period of increased cross-cultural contact.