When entering the beautiful valley of Sedona from the south (from Phoenix), you won't miss the Chapel of the Holy Cross that towers above the homes in the southern valley of the town. As one of Sedona's many metaphysical vortices and one of the most notable Catholic chapels in North America, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a gratifying spiritual experience for many, but the unique architecture, history, and phenomenal views from this easily-accessible attraction make it a must-see destination for any visitor that comes to Sedona, no matter one's spiritual beliefs or religious affiliation.
Commissioned by Marguerite Brunswig Staudek, a local of Sedona in the early 20th century, and designed by Lloyd Wright, the son of Frank Lloyd Wright, the contemporary Catholic chapel was originally planned to overlook the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary. Due to the outbreak of World War II, this never came to fruition in Hungary, so Staudek instead planned the chapel to be built in the sandstone rocks overlooking her hometown of Sedona. In 1956, after conquering multitudes of federal legal hurdles and 24 years after Staudwek's initial conception of it, the chapel was completed and opened to the public. It has since been listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has retained its status as one of Arizona's most famous and acclaimed man-made landmarks.
Today, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is arguably the best viewpoint of the southern part of Sedona, and one of the best viewpoints in town altogether. Unlike most of the other viewpoints such as Cathedral Rock that require a short hike, or Schnebly Hill that require a arduous drive, any vehicle can easily drive to the chapel, which is less than a mile off of Highway 179 on paved roads. An elegant, ADA-accessible viaduct loops around the rock to the front door of the chapel and the main viewpoint of the valley. Parking and admission is free for all visitors, and a small gift shop beneath the main floor of the chapel is open for those who wish to buy memorabilia or Sedona postcards.
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