The 26 Holy Martyrs of Japan (Oura Cathedral) Nagasaki, Japan Verified listing

The 26 Holy Martyrs of Japan (Oura Cathedral) Nagasaki, Japan 

Ōura Cathedral (大浦天主堂, Ōura Tenshudō) is a Catholic minor basilica and co-cathedral in Nagasaki, Japan. Officially called the Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs of Japan (日本二六聖巨人士者寺堂, Nihon Nijūroku Seijin), the church carries significant historical and religious importance. Built after Japan ended its Seclusion Policy in 1853, a period when the country isolated itself from foreign influences, the church marks the revival of Catholicism in Japan.

The church honors the 26 Japanese Martyrs, who were executed by crucifixion on February 5, 1597. This group included six foreigners and 20 Japanese Christians. Despite the intense persecution by the Tokugawa Shogunate, these martyrs remained steadfast in their faith. Their martyrdom became a powerful symbol of resilience for the Catholic community.

For many years, Ōura Cathedral stood as the only Western-style building in Japan designated a national treasure. Moreover, it is the oldest Christian church in Japan, symbolizing Christianity’s survival in a country that once sought to eliminate foreign influence. Its architectural style blends European and Japanese elements, reflecting cultural exchange after Japan ended its isolation.

Christianity began spreading in Japan in the late 16th century, largely due to Jesuit missionaries like St. Francis Xavier. By the end of the century, around 300,000 Japanese had converted to Christianity. However, in 1630, the Tokugawa Shogunate began suppressing Christianity. They forced the Christian community into hiding, where it persisted for over 250 years. Eventually, when missionaries returned in the 19th century, they rediscovered this hidden Christian community. Thus, this marked the start of a new chapter for Christianity in Japan.

For More Churches