Herencia (Ciudad Real) has launched the long-awaited restoration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, an intervention focused on one of the most beloved and recognizable images in the municipality. The Parish of Immaculate Conception has set up a Bizum account for individuals and businesses to contribute donations, and it reminds everyone that donations can also be made directly at the church. The goal is to restore stability and dignity to a sculpture that has been exposed to the elements and wear over the years.
The above photograph, provided by the parish community, clearly shows cracks, loss of surface material, and erosion in the stone, common effects on outdoor sculptures subjected to thermal changes, rain, wind, and solar radiation. The beginning of the work marks the first step in a comprehensive intervention aimed at preserving, consolidating, and protecting the statue for years to come.
A “guide and beacon” for the community
Beyond its religious significance, the image of the Sacred Heart is a landmark of the urban landscape and an emotional point of reference for many families in Herencia. The parish community describes it as a “guide and beacon for our town”, a phrase that encapsulates the bond between the sculpture and collective memory: family photographs with the silhouette in the background, celebrations in its shadow, and the act of looking up as one arrives home.
This dual significance—spiritual and civic—explains why the restoration has been envisioned from the start as a community project, open to collaboration. The parish emphasizes that every contribution counts, from small individual donations to contributions from local businesses and organizations.
What to expect from this type of restoration
While specific technical details will be provided as phases progress, typical tasks in stone conservation interventions usually include:
- Preliminary diagnostics and photogrammetric documentation: recording the current condition to guide decisions.
- Controlled cleaning of crusts and surface deposits, avoiding aggressive methods.
- Consolidation of weakened areas and sealing of cracks to prevent water intrusion.
- Point-reintegration where necessary for safety or structural integrity.
- Final protection with treatments suitable for the stone’s nature.
The principle governing these interventions is minimal intervention with maximum efficacy, prioritizing reversibility and respecting the original material. Additionally, since this is an elevated and visible sculpture, the work will follow strict safety protocols and will likely employ height access equipment.
A call for collaboration: Bizum and donations at the church
To facilitate citizen participation, the Parish of Immaculate Conception in Herencia has established a specific Bizum account. Interested individuals can inquire about the code and details at the parish; those who prefer may make their donations at the church during regular hours. The parish community will assist with questions and issue receipts when necessary.
Officials remind everyone that every bit helps: from personal contributions to corporate donations from businesses and groups wishing to be associated with the recovery of this emblematic asset for the locality.
Impact on daily life and the local landscape
The start of the works may occasionally lead to minor access restrictions in the work zone or safety perimeters to protect pedestrians and technicians. Residents are requested to respect the signage, follow the instructions of personnel, and prioritize safety during the intervention. It is anticipated that the ordinary activities of residents will not be significantly affected.
Once the restoration is complete, the Sacred Heart will regain form, stability, and presence, contributing to the beautification of the urban landscape and reinforcing the sense of belonging that the people of Herencia associate with its silhouette.
A grassroots project
The community driving this project emphasizes its participatory nature. In times of tight budgets, the aggregation of small contributions provides an effective avenue for addressing specific conservation needs in local heritage. This endeavor is not just about funding a project; it’s about engaging the community in the care of what represents them.
The restoration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is, in this sense, a chance for heritage education: explaining why materials deteriorate, how interventions are decided upon, what conserving entails, and how each neighbor can contribute. The parish will share updates and information to keep the process open and transparent.
Next steps: information and transparency
As work progresses, the parish will communicate phases, milestones, and needs. The community is invited to visit the parish office for inquiries, check hours of operation, and request the Bizum code or alternative donation methods. Physical cash donations will also be accepted at the church, designated exclusively for the project.
A period of technical work lies ahead that requires time and patience. The goal is to do things right, with professional criteria, so that the Sacred Heart can shine with safety and dignity for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I donate for the restoration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Herencia?
The parish has set up a specific Bizum account and also collects donations at the church. For the Bizum code, hours, and details, it is recommended to visit the Parish of Immaculate Conception of Herencia.
What type of work does a restoration of an outdoor stone sculpture involve?
It typically includes diagnostics, controlled cleaning, consolidation, sealing of cracks, possible point reintegrations, and final protection, all guided by principles of minimal intervention and respect for the original.
Will there be closures or restrictions during the work?
There may be safety perimeters in the work area and restricted access at certain times. Please respect signage and the instructions of technical personnel.
Where can I get information about progress and resolve questions about donations and timings?
The Parish of Immaculate Conception of Herencia is the information point: there, announcements, work phases, and collaboration methods (Bizum and donations at the church) will be provided.
Sources:
Parish of Immaculate Conception of Herencia (information and call for collaboration).
Images of the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus provided by the parish.
Seen on Facebook
Spanish post in Arrancan las obras de restauración del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, símbolo espiritual y urbano de Herencia
