Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona
The Chapel of the Holy Cross nestles into red rock. Photo © Willie Stark.
Another view of the modern Catholic chapel. Photo
Ray Pennisi.
Terrace in front of the chapel.
Interior of the chapel at sunset. Photo
Rick Rick.
View of Cathedral Rock from the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Location map and aerial view of Chapel of the Holy Cross. For a larger interactive view, see our Sedona Map.
Spectacularly situated between red-rock towers in Sedona, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a Catholic chapel with amazing views, especially around sunset, making this a special attraction for those seeking divine inspiration.
History
The unique architecture and location of the Chapel of the Holy Cross are the inspirations of Marguerite Bruswig Staude, who went on a trip to New York City in 1932. She observed that a cross could be seen in the newly constructed Empire State Building when viewed from a certain angle, and was inspired to built a church based on that design.
Staude kept an eye out all over Europe and the USA for the ideal location, and she was especially struck by the beauty of Sedona. She decided to build her chapel here, which would be "a monument to faith, but a spiritual fortress so charged with God, that it spurs man's spirit godward." The Chapel of the Holy Cross was completed in April 1956.
What to See
Built on a twin-pinnacled spur about 250 feet high, jutting out of a thousand foot red rock wall, the construction was something of a miracle in itself. The chapel is a fine example of modern architecture, focusing all attention on a great window and cross behind the altar.
The Diocese of Phoenix and St John Vianney parish are the caretakers of the Chapel. Regardless of faith, all are welcomed to visit, meditate or pray there. While in the area, natural attractions such as the imposing Bell Rock are also worth visiting.
Getting There
From "uptown" Sedona, take 179 south toward the Village of Oak Creek for 3.1 miles. Turn left on Chapel Road and go to the end. It is a steep climb from the parking lot to the chapel, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Quick Facts
Site Information |
| Names: | Chapel of the Holy Cross |
| Dedicated to: | Holy Cross |
| Location: | Sedona, Arizona, USA |
| Category: | Churches |
| Faith: | Christianity |
| Denomination: | Catholic |
| Status: | active |
| Date: | 1956 |
| Architecture: | Modern |
Visitor Information |
| Coordinates: | 34.831942° N, 111.766925° W (view on Google Maps) |
| Address: | 780 Chapel Road, Sedona, AZ, USA |
| Phone: | 928-282-4069 |
| Website: | www.chapeloftheholycross.com |
| Hours: | Daily 9am-5pm. Closed for visits on Thanksgiving, Good Friday, Easter and Christmas. |
| Cost: | Free |
| Photography: | Permitted |
| Services: | Taize Prayer Service: Mondays 5pm Eucharistic Liturgies: Daily 8am except Thu and Sat; Sat: 5:30pm; Sun 8am and 10:30am Masses are held at St John Vianney in Sedona. |
Travel Resources
- Sedona Map - our detailed interactive map of Sedona, plus hand-picked links to more
- Sedona Guided Tours - book sightseeing tours and activities in Sedona
- Sedona Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, then book at the guaranteed lowest rate
- Sedona Restaurant Reviews - the best places to eat in town
- Sedona Travel Forum - tips, answers and advice on Sedona tourism
Article Sources
Article written by Holly Hayes with reference to the following sources:
- Chapel of the Holy Cross – official website
- Lonely Planet Southwest USA
- Reviews of the Chapel of the Holy Cross - TripAdvisor
Article last updated: 04/18/2009.
