Buffalo is bursting at the seams with beautiful buildings – some of the most beautiful of which are places of worship. And this little-known church hiding in Buffalo is an absolute work of art... both inside and out! Let's take a look:
The former St. Francis Xavier Church is located at 157 East Street in Buffalo.
The building was constructed in 1911 and was an operating church until 2007.
When the church closed its doors, many feared the structure would become abandoned or destroyed.
Fortunately, that's where the Buffalo Religious Arts Center stepped in! The organization took over the building in 2008, making sure to maintain its beauty. And they've done such a great job, the church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009!
Step inside the church and you'll be amazed at the beauty within.
The goal of the Buffalo Religious Arts Center is to "preserve fine art from houses of worship that were forced to close." Inside, you'll see religious art in the form of stained glass windows, statues, oil and watercolor paintings, and more.
The church is rather impressive in its architecture, too!
Even without the art inside, the building is a work of art in and of itself. The Roman Basilica styling of the church is amazingly intricate.
The Buffalo Religious Arts Center is one of the few galleries in America housed in a former church.
The whole concept of the center is a wonderful way to preserve the art and relics of now-closed places of worship.
Remember when we mentioned the stained glass windows?
The stained glass windows at the Religious Arts Center and the St. Francis Xavier Church are one of the main attractions. Once you see them in person, you'll understand why!
Even everything down to the organs are intricately designed.
There's something new to see around every corner at this little-known church. And thanks to the Buffalo Religious Arts Center, you can have easy access to it all!
Want to learn more or see the church up close and personal? Book a tour!
Tours of the church are available for students grades 5 and up. The general public can also schedule tours to learn more about this historic building and the artwork displayed within.
Have you ever been to the Buffalo Religious Arts Center? Share your favorite parts of this beautiful church in the comments below! Bonus points if you share photos of this work of art with us on Instagram @onlyinbuffalo!
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