Sedona, Arizona is known for its spas, its hiking trails, and its beautiful Painted Desert.
It is a town that is full of beauty, spirituality and culture. If you are planning a trip to this desert town and only have time to visit one cultural site, consider making that stop the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Perched on the red cliffs, just four miles outside of Sedona’s “Y” intersection, this stunningly beautiful church was designed by sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude (a student of architect Frank Lloyd Wright) in the 1950s. It is said that Staude was inspired to design the church after visiting New York City in 1932 and observing a cross that could be seen from the Empire State Building, which at the time was the newest building of the New York Skyline. At the time the architect knew what she wanted to build, but did not know where she would place her masterpiece.
She searched throughout Europe and the United States, looking for the perfect location and selected Sedona after being struck by the beauty of the city.
This Catholic chapel is known for its amazing views and has long been a draw for travelers who are seeking to experience a connection with the divine. Completed in 1956, Staude saw the building as “a monument to faith, but a spiritual fortress so charged with God, that it spurs man’s spirit Godward.”
The artistry of the stained glass window and giant cross behind the altar are as much as a draw to visitors as the building itself. In addition, many visitors come to the site for both the views that it offers of Verde Valley and because of the peaceful respite it provides. Though the Diocese of Phoenix and St. John Vianney parish maintain the property, the church welcomes practitioners of all faiths to visit, meditate and pray at the location.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and on Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm. In addition, there is a weekly Prayer Service offered every Monday at 5 pm.
Connect With Us!