Chapel of the Holy Cross
Arizona
The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona, Arizona, is a remarkable Roman Catholic chapel constructed between 1954 and 1956, uniquely integrated into the region's iconic red rock formations within the Coconino National Forest. Commissioned by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a local rancher and sculptor inspired by the Empire State Building's steel framework, the chapel features a 90-foot tall iron cross that serves both as a structural and symbolic centerpiece. Designed by architect August K. Strotz and project architect Richard Hein, it was built with reinforced concrete and smokey-gray glass to complement the natural surroundings, creating an impression of grandeur and strength. The chapel seats up to 150 people and includes a confessional, office, and sacristies in its basement. It is under the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix and serves as a place of prayer and reflection, welcoming visitors of all faiths. Recognized for its architectural significance, the chapel received awards from the American Institute of Architects and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. Its serene location atop the red rocks and its artistic design make it one of Sedona's top attractions and a spiritual landmark.
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Consiglio: Visit the chapel between 9 AM and 5 PM, with last entry at 4:45 PM. Attend Mass on Wednesdays and Fridays at 3 PM or join the Taizé Prayer Service on Mondays at 5 PM. Consider purchasing tickets or donations in advance if available. The gift shop offers religious relics and souvenirs. Avoid major holidays when the gift shop is closed. The site is accessible via the Sedona Shuttle Connect for convenient transport.
Fatti interessanti
- •The chapel features a 90-foot tall iron cross that both supports the altar and stands as a structural element.
- •It was inspired by the steel framework of the Empire State Building and other skyscrapers.
- •The chapel was built without the use of dynamite, moving over 25 tons of rock manually.
- •It was voted one of the Seven Man-Made Wonders of Arizona in 2007.
- •The American Institute of Architects awarded it an Award of Honor in 1957.
Storia
Inspired in 1932 by the Empire State Building, Marguerite Brunswig Staude first planned a chapel in Budapest, Hungary, but the project was halted by World War II.
She later commissioned the chapel in her native Sedona, with Senator Barry Goldwater helping secure a special-use permit on Coconino National Forest land.
Designed by August K.
Strotz and Richard Hein, construction began in 1954 and was completed in 18 months by 1956.
The chapel was built without using dynamite, moving over 25 tons of rock, and was dedicated to Staude's parents.
It earned architectural awards in 1954 and 1957, highlighting its innovative design and harmonious integration with nature.
Guida del luogo
Main Chapel and Iron Cross1954-1956
The centerpiece of the chapel is the 90-foot iron cross on the southwestern wall, which holds the altar and the Corpus inside. The cross is a striking architectural and symbolic feature inspired by skyscraper frameworks.
Entrance Ramp1954-1956
Visitors approach the chapel via a long, curved ramp made of textured concrete, designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment and provide an accessible path to the entrance.
Interior Space1954-1956
The chapel interior features smokey-gray glass windows on either end to reduce glare and concrete floors finished with a trowel technique, creating a serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The chapel seats up to 150 people.
Contatto
Telefono: (928) 282-4069
