This Blog is not intended to have any religious meaning or importance. Rather, the focus is on Detroit's magnificent church architecture and history (underground railroad and US civil rights). Founded in 1701, Detroit has grown to 138 square miles (a land mass greater than Manhattan, Boston, and San Francisco combined) and more than 800 churches. Over those 221 years, Detroit moved from French to British to U.S. control, spreading out each time a new church attracted a new community around it.
More than 250 Detroit structures, including more than 20 of the city’s larger religious institutions, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These significant structures, with their different designs and profiles, maintain Detroit’s beauty since they were made to last (regardless of whether they currently have thriving populations).
Many of us enjoy traveling, so whenever we visit a new location, we automatically search for the places that are in high demand. Prepare to see some of Detroit’s top attractions, including Fort Street Presbyterian Church, Old St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Sweetest Heart of Mary Church, and more.
When we drive through the churches in the Detroit area, we can’t help but stop and gaze at their magnificent and enticing architecture. Each of these 15 gorgeous churches has a rich history that should be enjoyed, whether or not you are a member.
Tour Overview
In the 19th century, American designers picked up on the European "revivalist" trend toward Medieval architecture and transformed it into what has become known as the Victorian Gothic and Late Gothic Revival styles. Dozens of Detroit churches and cathedrals embody elements of these styles. Note that the interiors of many of these buildings are as or more impressive than the exteriors, so be sure to take a look inside. In addition to great architecture and history, these churches maintain some of the oldest, finest and rarest vessels and vestments.
Detroit's churches feature stunning architecture and rich history, making them notable landmarks in the city. The churches around Detroit provide such amazing and alluring architecture to the city; we can't help but to stare at them when we drive past them. Whether you are a member of one of these 12 exquisite churches or not, each one holds rich history that should be appreciated.
Historic Detroit - Churches
Website with a great listing of historic City of Detroit churches.
Tour Overview
In the 19th century, American designers picked up on the European "revivalist" trend toward Medieval architecture and transformed it into what has become known as the Victorian Gothic and Late Gothic Revival styles. Dozens of Detroit churches and cathedrals embody elements of these styles. Note that the interiors of many of these buildings are as or more impressive than the exteriors, so be sure to take a look inside. In addition to great architecture and history, these churches maintain some of the oldest, finest and rarest vessels and vestments.
Detroit has long been a city of churches, at one time claiming more churches per square mile than any other city in the country. Join us for this annual walking tour of four of Detroit’s most famous and beautiful churches as we tour the inside of these historic sites around Greektown.
Stay tuned for news on the 2025 City of Churches tour.
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