CHapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of Sedona's most iconic landmarks and one of the most photographed attractions in the American Southwest. Dramatically built into Sedona’s towering red rock cliffs, the chapel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape while serving as a place of worship, reflection, and inspiration. Visitors from around the world come to experience its unique architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning location amid Sedona’s famous red rock formations.

Located among Sedona’s spectacular sandstone buttes and mesas, the Chapel of the Holy Cross combines spiritual significance with natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for tourists, photographers, architecture enthusiasts, and spiritual travelers alike. The chapel's floor-to-ceiling windows frame incredible views of the surrounding canyon country, creating a serene environment where visitors can admire Sedona’s world-renowned scenery.

Whether you're exploring Sedona’s scenic drives, searching for the best viewpoints in Arizona, or seeking a meaningful cultural experience, the Chapel of the Holy Cross remains one of the region’s most beloved attractions. Its blend of modern architecture, dramatic desert landscapes, and spiritual tranquility has made it a symbol of Sedona and a highlight of any visit to northern Arizona.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross was conceived by sculptor and rancher Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a student of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Inspired by the construction of the Empire State Building and her desire to create a spiritual sanctuary harmoniously integrated into nature, Staude envisioned a chapel built directly into the dramatic red rock formations of Sedona.

Construction began in the early 1950s, and the chapel was completed and dedicated in 1956. Designed by architects Richard Hein and August Strotz, the structure was carefully incorporated into the surrounding cliffs, allowing the building to appear as though it emerges naturally from the sandstone itself. The chapel's most recognizable feature is its 90-foot cross that rises prominently from the red rock landscape.

Since its opening, the Chapel of the Holy Cross has become one of Arizona’s most visited religious landmarks and a celebrated example of architecture that complements rather than dominates its natural environment. Today, it welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually who come to admire its design, enjoy its spectacular views, and experience the peaceful atmosphere that has made it an enduring symbol of Sedona’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Best Scenic Driving Tours to Chapel of the Holy Cross

• Two Hour: Sedona Sacred Sites Tour
• Three Hour: Red Rock Custom Driving Tours