Five Wounds Church
A stunning Portuguese National Church in San Jose, known for its iconic red domes and authentic architectural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience English mass
Five Wounds Church
Best Time
Experience English mass
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Portuguese National Church in San Jose, known for its iconic red domes and authentic architectural beauty.
"It's just beautiful! The materials inside this church are actually from Portugal!"
📸 Admire the Architecture
The church's unique red domes and Portuguese-inspired design are a photographer's dream!
🙏 Attend an English Mass
If you don't speak Spanish, English mass is available on Sundays.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Red-Domed Towers
Exterior
Instantly recognizable twin towers with striking red domes, a landmark visible from Highway 101.
Portuguese Architectural Details
Interior
Materials and artistry imported from Portugal create an authentic and breathtaking atmosphere inside.
Serene Sanctuary
Interior
A peaceful and beautiful space for prayer, reflection, and celebrating significant life events like weddings and masses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse of Portugal in San Jose
Mass Times & Visiting Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Admire the Architecture
The church's unique red domes and Portuguese-inspired design are a photographer's dream!
🙏 Attend an English Mass
If you don't speak Spanish, English mass is available on Sundays.
🚗 Easy Highway Access
Conveniently located near Highway 101, making it a visible and accessible landmark.
🎶 Organ Music
Experience the beautiful sounds of the organ during mass services.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Admire the Architecture
The church's unique red domes and Portuguese-inspired design are a photographer's dream!
🙏 Attend an English Mass
If you don't speak Spanish, English mass is available on Sundays.
🚗 Easy Highway Access
Conveniently located near Highway 101, making it a visible and accessible landmark.
🎶 Organ Music
Experience the beautiful sounds of the organ during mass services.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Five Wounds Church for its stunning beauty and peaceful atmosphere, often noting its unique Portuguese architectural elements. Many find it a serene place for prayer, reflection, and celebrating significant life events like weddings. While some appreciate its cultural significance, a few may find it less engaging if not attending a service.
"I had not been In this church, many years. It's beauty stunned me."
susana garcia
"Beautiful and peaceful church to celebrate your wedding or Sunday mass."
Hien Truong
"This church is a beautiful place to visit"
Alex Ong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Five Wounds Church is located in the Little Portugal neighborhood of East San Jose, California. It's easily visible from Highway 101, making it a convenient landmark to find.
While specific parking details can vary, churches typically have parking lots available for parishioners and visitors attending services or events. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially for Sunday mass.
Driving is the most common method due to its location. Public transportation options might be available via local bus routes serving East San Jose.
Bus routes serving East San Jose likely pass near the church. Checking local transit schedules for routes near Alum Rock would be recommended.
The church is a central part of San Jose's historic Little Portugal neighborhood, known for its vibrant community and cultural heritage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to visit the church. It is a place of worship open to the public for prayer and admiration of its architecture.
Visiting hours can vary, but the church is generally accessible for prayer and viewing its beauty. It's best to check the official Five Wounds Church mass schedule for specific times if you plan to attend a service.
Yes, Five Wounds Church holds regular masses. They offer services in Portuguese and English, with English mass typically on Sundays.
Churches are often open on major holidays for special services. It's recommended to check their schedule or contact them directly for holiday mass times.
There is no entrance fee to visit and admire the architecture of Five Wounds Church. Donations are always appreciated.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Five Wounds Portuguese National Church is a significant cultural and religious landmark, founded in 1914 to serve the Portuguese community in San Jose.
Its beauty stems from its unique architecture, featuring striking red-domed towers and interior elements imported directly from Portugal, creating an authentic Portuguese ambiance. 
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's respectful to be mindful of ongoing services and avoid flash photography during mass.
Absolutely! The church's stunning beauty makes it a popular and picturesque venue for weddings, with many couples choosing it for their ceremonies.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful, serene, and filled with a sense of happiness and good health, making it a place for reflection and prayer.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic red-domed towers are a must-capture from the exterior. Inside, the intricate details and stained glass windows offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during services, to ensure smooth flow and respect for worshippers. It's best to inquire with church staff if you plan to use one.
Late afternoon light can beautifully illuminate the red domes, while morning light can offer a softer glow. Consider the angle of the sun for the best exterior shots.
While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid disruptive practices like using flash during services or taking intrusive photos of worshippers.
The church is a popular spot for wedding photography, cultural shoots, and architectural photography due to its unique aesthetic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to allow children to explore without disturbing services. The church's location in a vibrant neighborhood also offers opportunities for a family stroll before or after your visit. Remember to explain the importance of quiet behavior inside a place of worship to ensure a respectful experience for everyone.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1For videographers and content creators, the church has been featured in wedding highlights and cultural showcases, demonstrating its photogenic qualities. When planning your shoot, be mindful of mass schedules to avoid disruption and always be respectful of worshippers. Early mornings or late afternoons might offer the best natural light for exterior shots.
+1❤️ Couples & Wedding Planners
+1Planners and couples should inquire about wedding packages, availability, and any specific requirements well in advance. The church's significance as a cultural landmark adds an extra layer of meaning to the union, celebrating heritage alongside love.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Piece of Portugal in California
+1The interior of the church continues this theme, offering a breathtaking experience for visitors. The craftsmanship and artistry imported from Portugal create an atmosphere that is both sacred and culturally rich. It's a place where the community gathers not only for religious services but also to celebrate their heritage and maintain their traditions. The church has been a cornerstone for generations, witnessing countless baptisms, weddings, and community events, solidifying its role as a beloved cultural institution.
+2For those interested in architecture, history, or simply seeking a moment of peace, Five Wounds Church offers a unique glimpse into the Portuguese diaspora's journey and its lasting impact on the San Francisco Bay Area. It stands as a beautiful reminder of cultural preservation and community spirit.
Experiencing Mass and Spirituality
The spiritual atmosphere within the church is frequently highlighted by visitors. Many describe it as a place of profound peace, happiness, and well-being. The beauty of the sanctuary, combined with the communal act of worship, creates a deeply moving experience. Some visitors have shared personal stories of answered prayers and fulfilled wishes made within its walls, underscoring its significance as a place of devotion and hope.
Beyond regular services, the church also serves as a cherished venue for significant life events, most notably weddings. Its picturesque setting and spiritual ambiance make it a sought-after location for couples looking to begin their married life in a meaningful and beautiful environment.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit