The Sacred Heart of Jesus Church is an important Armenian church located in the western Iranian city of Kermanshah. Situated on Modares Street, the church stands among other notable religious sites, including the Shafei Mosque and the Haj Shahbaz Khan Mosque. As a historic and religious landmark, it offers visitors a glimpse into the Armenian Christian heritage of the region.
Built in 1914 during the Qajar era, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church occupies approximately 280 square meters of land. The church was commissioned and consecrated by Bishop Youhannan, a prominent figure in the history of Christianity in Iran. Bishop Youhannan was known for his religious scholarship, including translating and writing books, overseeing the construction and renovation of churches across Iran, and serving as head bishop for Catholic churches in the country. His dedication, knowledge, and wisdom left a lasting impact on the Christian community in Kermanshah.
The church’s infrastructure spans around 160 square meters, including auxiliary rooms and facilities. Its roof features a traditional gable shape, complemented by a beautiful wooden interior. Brick is the primary construction material, giving the church a timeless and sturdy appearance.
The west façade features three arches, with the central arch leading to the main entrance and the side arches containing windows. All doors and windows are framed with intricate brick moldings forming elegant arches. The north and south façades also display arched windows, although the south-side windows are closed and used as decorative niches, adding a unique character to the building’s exterior.
This charming church reflects a blend of simplicity and elegance, making it a key site for tourists interested in Iran’s Armenian Christian history and architecture.
The Sacred Heart of Jesus Church is generally accessible to visitors during daytime hours. While there are no fixed official visiting hours, a guided visit with local experts is recommended to fully appreciate the church’s historical and architectural details.
For more information about Armenian heritage and churches in Iran, see: Iranian Armenians – Wikipedia
