Christian Japan

Hidden for centuries. Open to pilgrims today.

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Twenty-Six Martyrs Monument & Museum (Nishizaka Hill)

NagasakiMartyrdom (1597–1873)verified

History

Site where 26 Christians (Japanese, Spanish, Mexican and Portuguese-linked missionaries and laymen) were crucified on 5 February 1597 on Hideyoshi's orders. Canonized in 1862. Monument by Funakoshi Yasutake and museum opened 1962.

Getting there

Short walk from JR Nagasaki Station.

Sources

From the library

  • Omata Rappo, 'How to Make Colored Japanese Counter-Reformation Saints' (JEMC 2017) — 1627 beatification and iconography of the 26 Martyrs
  • Hesselink, The Dream of Christian Nagasaki — full text read; mentioned on PDF pp. 154, 155
  • 'Facing a Form of Formed God': Japan's Hidden Christians — full text read; mentioned on PDF pp. 11, 12
  • Christian Facilities in Nagasaki (maps) — full text read; mentioned on PDF pp. 4, 6, 16, 21, 94, 110…
  • Yūki Diego (Ryōgo), yukidiego01 — full text read; mentioned on PDF pp. 1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 11…

Coordinates 32.75472, 129.87167