Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Melilla
The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Melilla is a neo-Romanesque Catholic temple constructed between 1900 and 1918, designed by architect Fernando Guerrero Strachan. It stands prominently in the modernist expansion of Melilla, specifically in Menéndez Pelayo Square, and is part of the city's historic artistic heritage. The church is built from local stone and solid brick, featuring a basilical floor plan with three naves covering 500 square meters and accommodating up to 2,000 people. Architecturally, its main façade is notable for a semicircular arch entrance flanked by Corinthian columns, a large rose window, and a bell tower crowned with a black pyramidal spire. Inside, the central nave is higher and wider than the side aisles, with a barrel vault pierced by oculi, leading to a semicircular apse. The interior houses several altars and retablos dedicated to various saints and Marian devotions, along with stained glass windows that create a play of colorful light. The church underwent significant restoration in 1989, funded by local entrepreneur Mohand Moh Mohatar, which revitalized its structure, installed bells, and refurbished the interior, including the construction of the Sagrario chapel, considered the restoration's centerpiece. This church remains a vital religious and cultural landmark in Melilla, reflecting early 20th-century architectural styles and the city's historical identity.
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Tip: Visit the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus during weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere. Consider checking for special religious events or solemnities when the swinging bell "Sagrado Corazón" is rung. It is advisable to explore the church's official website or contact the parish for updated visiting hours and any guided tours. Advance ticket purchase is not required as it is a place of worship, but donations for preservation are appreciated. The best lighting for photography is during daylight when stained glass windows illuminate the interior.
Interesting facts
- •The church's bell tower features a clock with four faces, one on each side, topped by a black pyramidal spire.
- •The swinging bell named "Sagrado Corazón" is rung only on major solemnities, while the other bells remain fixed.
- •The church can accommodate up to 2,000 people, making it one of the largest religious buildings in Melilla.
- •The restoration in 1989 was largely funded by a local businessman, Mohand Moh Mohatar, who invested over 11 million pesetas.
- •The church is part of Melilla's historic artistic ensemble, recognized as a cultural heritage site.
History
Construction of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus began around 1900, led by architect Fernando Guerrero Strachan, and was completed with its inauguration on May 19, 1918.
In 1927, the church required repairs due to severe weather, which were overseen by Enrique Nieto.
By 1988, the building was deteriorating significantly, lacking functioning bells and with a failing structure.
Thanks to the patronage of Mohand Moh Mohatar and the efforts of the charismatic vicar Santiago Martínez, a major restoration was undertaken in 1989, which included structural repairs, installation of bells, and interior refurbishments.
This restoration preserved the church as a key cultural and religious monument in Melilla.
Place Guide
Main Façade and Bell Tower1900-1918
The church's façade features a semicircular arched entrance flanked by Corinthian columns, topped by a large rose window and flanked by two elongated windows. Above rises a bell tower with a double-arched belfry, a clock on all four sides, and a black pyramidal spire, making it a city landmark.
Interior Nave and Apse1900-1918
The basilical interior consists of three naves, with the central nave being wider and higher, covered by a barrel vault with oculi that allow natural light. The nave leads to a semicircular apse with five elongated windows, consistent with the neo-Romanesque style.
Altars and Retablos
The church contains multiple altars and retablos dedicated to saints such as Saint Joseph and Marian devotions including Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the Virgin of Sorrows, and the Immaculate Conception. These add to the rich devotional atmosphere and artistic value of the interior.
Sagrario Chapel1989
Added during the 1989 restoration, the Sagrario chapel is located to the left of the main altar and was considered the restoration's central feature, symbolizing the spiritual heart of the renewed church.
Contact
Phone: 952 68 35 52