The Parish Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Zocca is one of the area’s most iconic religious buildings, situated in a panoramic position and commanding a view over the village and the surrounding valley with its elegant silhouette.

Construction of the building began in 1895, based on a design by the engineer Carlo Barberi, to replace the ancient 17th-century oratory of San Contardo d’Este, which was subsequently demolished in 1926. In 1929, the church was elevated to parish status with the title of archpriesthood, taking on a central role in the religious life of the community.

Architecturally, the church is distinguished by an eclectic style that blends Neo-Romanesque elements with Neo-Byzantine influences, typical of the late 19th-century medieval revival. Next to the building stands the slender bell tower, built in the second decade of the 20th century and completed in 1929 thanks to the generosity of Elio Monzoni and Don Ludovico Monzoni, as commemorated by a plaque. The tower, with its conical spire flanked by four turrets, draws on Romanesque models and lends great character to the entire complex.

The interior of the church is adorned with frescoes by Count Giacomo Gemmi, an artist who worked mainly in Bologna, whose style combines Byzantine and Renaissance influences, creating an evocative atmosphere rich in spirituality. In the crypt there is a striking grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, housing a depiction of the Sacred Heart painted in 1911 by the Modena-based artist Gaetano Bellei.

With its blend of architecture, art and devotion, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus stands today as a landmark for Zocca, telling the story of the history and faith of an entire community.