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Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona

4.6
#1 of 83 in Historic Sites in Arizona
Religious Site Mysterious Site Must See
Built into the red sandstone cliffs of the Sonoran Desert, Chapel of the Holy Cross offers panoramic views of the region's rugged landscape. Commissioned by a local rancher and sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude, the chapel took nearly two years to complete, with the final touches added in 1956. Considered a wonder of modern architecture, the structure sits on a twin-pinnacled ridge, towering over the landscape from a height of about 75 m (250 ft). Sparsely adorned inside, the building contains a few benches hugging the angular walls, two rows of pews in the center, and floor-to-ceiling windows behind the altar. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb from the parking lot. Add Chapel of the Holy Cross and other attractions to your Sedona trip itinerary using our Sedona itinerary maker.
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Reviews
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
7,314 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • August 14, 2017
    This evolved over many years and changed its dimensions as a result of time and cost. Very scenic views and the interior is very unique for such a small chapel!  more »
  • August 14, 2017
    Loved the Chapel of the Holy Cross! We were traveling through the area and stopped to walk up there. Was totally worth it, spectacular views of Sedona and Red Rocks.  more »
  • August 14, 2017
    Don't miss this location well worth it. Sedona has the most amazing scenery and it was a great privilege to visit that awesome landscape.  more »
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Google
  • May 30, 2017
    This church is beautiful and worth the walk if you can't get a close parking spot. The view is gorgeous and there's a mansion you can see from the top. Very popular spot though. Expect some congestion.
  • June 18, 2017
    When the Chapel was built in 1956, it looked over and endless landscape of red rock formations. Today those formations are still there, but covered with fancy homes and estate. Don't be concerned though, because the feeling inside the Chapel is what counts, along with the wonderful architecture that makes this place a holy space. A must see if you're in Sedona for more than a day.
  • June 5, 2017
    Amazing views and the chapel itself is beautiful. There was a priest on site who gave a very insightful "tour" and offered up a history of the chapel to all who were curious.
  • June 17, 2017
    I am by no means religious, but these views are godly. When here strictly for the views and thus this review has nothing to do wit hthe chapel, although I must admit, It was a beautiful chapel. Perfect spot to stop and view some red rocks.
  • June 24, 2017
    The visit was not bad, and had a decent view, though it lacked everywhere else. Not to mention that parking was a nightmare.
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One of the southwest's most popular tourist destinations, Sedona offers some of the most luxurious accommodations in this part of the country, including opulent hotels and lavish resorts. These establishments can be quite pricey, but in addition to rooms packed with high-tech features, they also offer free parking, spa treatments, and fine dining. If you wish to get out of town and explore the famous
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