Italy – Arima Christian Heritage Museum In 1582, Italian missionary Alessandro Valignano played a key role in sending four young boys from Nagasaki to Europe. This was the Tensho Embassy, and these boys would visit Rome and meet both Pope Gregory XIII and Sixtus V. The Arima Christian Heritage Museum, in Minamishimabara, includes a description of Valignano’s work and the seminary that he established. Also on display is a model of the letterpress printing machine that was brought back to Japan. 8 visit-nagasaki.com/spots/detail/586/
Spain - St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church Christianity was spread to Japan when Fr. Francis Xavier, born in Navarre (modern Spain), was sent to Asia by the King of Portugal. Famous for his missionary work, Xavier also cofounded the Jesuit order with priests from Spain and other countries. Today, a statue at the St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church in Hirado commemorates his missionary visit to Hirado in 1550. From a distance, visitors can enjoy the unique view of the church framed by Buddhist temples. 8 visit-nagasaki.com/spots/detail/532
France – Oura Cathedral Oura Cathedral in Nagasaki City is a symbol of France’s role in the history of Christianity in Japan. Built in 1864 by two French priests, Bernard Thaddée Petitjean and Louis-Theodore Furet, it is the oldest wooden church still standing in Japan. The priests were overjoyed when Christians from Urakami Village visited the church a few months after its completion and revealed their faith. Visitors can appreciate the historical significance of this church and enjoy the beautiful stained glass windows. 8 visit-nagasaki.com/spots/detail/207
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