Oura Catholic Church, Nagasaki

Nestled in the historic city of Nagasaki, Japan, Oura Catholic Church stands as a poignant testament to the enduring faith and tumultuous history of Christianity in the country. Constructed in 1864, this Gothic-style structure is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the resilience of its faithful congregation.

Oura Church, also known as the Church of the Twenty-Six Martyrs, was built under the direction of a French priest, Father Bernard Petitjean. The church was erected in memory of the 26 Christian martyrs who were crucified in Nagasaki in 1597, a grim reminder of the severe persecution Christians faced during that period in Japan. Its designation as a Basilica is a reflection of its historical and spiritual significance.

The church is distinguished by its striking white façade, twin spires, and stained glass windows that cast vivid colors into the serene interior, creating an atmosphere of contemplation and reverence. It is the oldest church in Japan to have remained intact, surviving the passage of time and the devastation of the atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki in 1945.

Oura Church holds the honor of being a National Treasure of Japan and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018 as part of the "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region." This accolade acknowledges the church as an important cultural property that represents the complex history of Christianity in Japan, from its introduction to the ban and subsequent underground practice, and finally to the revival of open worship.

Visitors to Oura Catholic Church can explore the rich history of Christianity in Japan through its artifacts and exhibitions. The church is not only a place of worship but also serves as a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for people of all backgrounds.