Sacred Heart Church (Heilig Hartkerk), Eindhoven

The Sacred Heart Church (Heilig Hartkerk) is a historic Catholic church located on Tramstraat in Eindhoven. Originally built for the Augustinian fathers of the adjacent Marienhage Monastery, the church was completed in 1898 and remained under their ownership until December 2017, when it was acquired by the funeral insurer and caretaker DELA as part of the Marienhage complex. The church is recognized as a national monument due to its architectural and historical significance.

Designed by architects P.J. Bekker and J.P.I. Hegener, the Sacred Heart Church is a prime example of neo-Gothic architecture. Constructed using red and yellow bricks, the three-aisled cruciform structure features elaborate ornamental brickwork, horizontal yellow stone bands, and narrow stained glass windows. The church’s most prominent architectural feature is its towering hexagonal spire, which reaches a height of 66 meters.

One of the most striking elements of the church is the Sacred Heart statue that adorns the spire. Created by Roermond sculptor Jean Geelen, the four-meter-high wooden and copper statue of Jesus stands with open arms in a welcoming gesture. Weighing 800 kilos, the statue was originally gilded and is affectionately known as "Jesus Daredevil" among locals.

Above the church’s main entrance, visitors can find statues of key figures associated with the Augustinian Order: Saint Augustine in the center, flanked by his mother, Saint Monica, on the left, and Saint Nicholas of Tolentine on the right. Inside, the church boasts a clean brickwork interior, with neo-Gothic elements, several chapels, and confessionals. The stunning stained glass windows in the transept facades were crafted by Daan Wildschut and Charles Eyck, while additional interior features originate from the work of Jan Custers.

In 2006, the Sacred Heart Church was declared the "City Parish," further cementing its role as a significant religious and cultural landmark in Eindhoven. Today, it continues to be a testament to the city’s rich ecclesiastical heritage, drawing visitors and worshippers alike with its architectural beauty and historical importance.