Japan - Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region

"Located in the north-western part of Kyushu island, the 12 components of the site consist of ten villages, Hara Castle and a cathedral, built between the 16th and 19th centuries. Together they reflect the earliest activities of Christian missionaries and settlers in Japan – the phase of encounter, followed by times of prohibition and persecution of the Christian faith and the final phase of the revitalization of Christian communities after the lifting of prohibition in 1873. These sites bear unique testimony to a cultural tradition nurtured by hidden Christians in the Nagasaki region who secretly transmitted their faith during the period of prohibition from the 17th to the 19th century."

Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Oura Church

Oura Church of Nagasaki. Thanks to Kenji of Japan.

Postcard 2 - Oura Church

Oura Church - interior view. Thanks to Kenji-san of Japan.