Catholic Nakamachi Church

Overview

The Catholic Nakamachi Church stands in the center of Nagasaki City, exuding history and dignity. Designed by a French priest and built in 1897, it was originally adorned with beautiful stained glass and carvings. However, the 1945 atomic bombing inflicted significant damage. Located about 2.6 kilometers south-southeast of the hypocenter, the blast and heat collapsed the ceiling, and the interior was completely burned. Miraculously, the exterior walls and the tower survived. After the war, the church was rebuilt, and it continues to serve as an important place of faith for the community. The rebuilt church harmoniously incorporates the surviving exterior walls and tower with new construction. Inside, you can still see original bricks and stonework. New stained glass windows bathe the interior in beautiful light. The Catholic Nakamachi Church serves as a testament to the horrors of war and a symbol of hope for peace. A visit allows you to feel the weight of history while experiencing a sense of hope and solace.