Cincinnati's skyline and streetscape are both filled with beautiful churches of a variety of denominations. Our history includes many stories of these churches being built, often thanks to the passion and dedication of its parishioners. Most of these were built well over 100 years ago and feature architecture and detail that you just don't find today. Take a look at these 7 Cincinnati area churches and they'll leave you absolutely speechless.
1. St. Francis Xavier Church - 607 Sycamore St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
St. Francis Xavier Church grandly stands downtown on Sycamore Street and was the center of the early Roman Catholic community in Cincinnati. The church was dedicated to Saint Peter in 1826 and remains today as one of the most jaw-dropping churches in our city.
2. St. Peter in Chains Cathedral - 325 W. 8th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
St. Peter in Chains is one of the most recognizable churches in Cincinnati, as it is located next to City Hall. The sight of the two historic buildings standing together is quite the experience. The Cathedral's cornerstone was laid in 1841 and the church was officially dedicated 4 years later in 1845.
3. Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption - 1101 Madison Avenue, Covington, Kentucky 41011
Another extremely recognizable church in the Cincinnati area can be found towering above the homes and buildings of Covington. St. Mary's Cathedral was elevated to the rank of minor basilica on December 8, 1953 by Pope Pius XII. With its similarities to famed Notre Dame in Paris, the Basilica is a breathtaking and treasured work of art in our area.
4. Old St. Mary's Church - 123 E 13th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Old St. Mary's Church stands beautifully as the oldest church in Cincinnati. The pure white exterior is a lovely welcome into the immaculate interior that will surely take your breath away. The church also houses one of the oldest bell towers in the entire country.
5. Armstrong Chapel United Methodist Church - 5125 Drake Rd., Indian Hill, Ohio 45243
Armstrong Chapel United Methodist Church is made up of a few different places of worship, but their old chapel is the most beautiful and is filled with history. Built in 1831, this classic chapel is inviting and lovingly maintained to ensure it stays just as charming as the day it opened.
6. Isaac M. Wise Temple - 720 Plum St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Plum Street Temple, located at the corner of 8th Street and Plum downtown, is one of the most awe-inspiring spaces in the city. The beautifully designed exterior is grand on its own, but once you walk through the doors, you will be greeted with a stunning, meticulously maintained Temple that has served the community since 1866.
7. Covenant-First Presbyterian Church - 717 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
At the corner of 8th and Elm, Covenant-First is another well known facade of our city's landscape. This historic section of downtown is a great place to wander, as you can explore Piatt Park, towering monuments and, of course, this magnificent church.
This list is just the beginning of a peek at the stunning churches in our city. What other lovely places of worship would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments so we can continue to marvel at these architectural wonders.
And for more on Old St. Mary's Church, listed above, check out our previous article here.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!