Historical Churches Walking Tour, Asheville

Historical Churches Walking Tour (Self Guided), Asheville

Those interested in quaint religious architecture are in for a pleasant surprise while in Asheville. The city is home to a number of Baptist churches, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Lutheran, Presbyterian, as well as Churches of Christ, not to mention a few non-Christian places of worship too, so it is safe to claim that practically each street corner here is a door to another denomination.

Among these, several prominent churches stand as a testament to the city's religious and cultural roots. Perhaps the most notable of them, the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, designed by the renowned Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino, is a striking example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Completed in 1905, it features an elaborate façade adorned with intricate carvings and a unique self-supporting dome.

Central United Methodist Church, founded in 1837, is one of Asheville's oldest congregations. The current Gothic Revival-style building, constructed in the early 20th century, is a remarkable sight with its pointed arches and towering rooftops.

Trinity Episcopal Church, established in 1849, is another ecclesiastical gem in Asheville. This historic church showcases elements of English Gothic architecture, with its picturesque red-brick exterior and beautifully crafted woodwork inside.

First Baptist Church holds a special place in Asheville's religious scene. The building, constructed in the Art Deco style in the 1920s, features grand columns on the façade, making it a prominent landmark.

Indeed, Asheville's historical churches are more than just places of worship but the architectural treasures reflecting the city's diverse cultural influences. If you find yourself in Asheville, don't miss the opportunity to visit these locations and immerse yourself in the spirituality they embody.
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Historical Churches Walking Tour Map

Guide Name: Historical Churches Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Asheville (See other walking tours in Asheville)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 4
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Author: HelenF
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
  • Basilica of St. Lawrence
  • Central United Methodist Church
  • Trinity Episcopal Church
  • First Baptist Church
1
Basilica of St. Lawrence

1) Basilica of St. Lawrence (must see)

The Minor Basilica of Saint Lawrence the Deacon and Martyr is a Roman Catholic church that was completed in 1905. The church was designed by Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino in a Catalan architectural style.

Guastavino worked together with architect R.S. Smith and local residents of Asheville to create a catholic church that was in keeping with the city's preferred style. The exterior of the church has a visible display of many ornate stained glass windows.

The interior of the church is as ornate as the exterior. It includes an Italian marble relief of the nativity of the Christ, a Marian altar with carvings of a number of female saints, wood carvings and terra cotta panels.

Visitors are welcome to tour the church, which was named a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II. They can attend services or enjoy the beauty of the church grounds. The Basilica of Saint Lawrence includes a Catholic library and a gift shop, both of which are open after church services on weekends.

Why You Should Visit:
Basilica of Saint Lawrence is a rare example of Catalan architecture in North Carolina and you get to appreciate the beauty of many religious artifacts in the church.

Tips:
Daily masses are available. Confessions are offered in the church vestibule on a daily basis. The library and gift shop are only open on weekends.
2
Central United Methodist Church

2) Central United Methodist Church

It all began about 173 years ago, when a little church was built in Asheville; it was the city’s first and only place of worship during that time. Today, right on the grounds where that small church existed, one can find the grand Central United Methodist Church; its construction began in 1902. Since its founding in 1837, it managed to gather a big family of believers, counting over 3,000 members. Everybody is welcome to become a part of the Methodist’s Church community.
3
Trinity Episcopal Church

3) Trinity Episcopal Church

Trinity Episcopal Church was founded around 1849; its first rector was Reverend Jarvis Buxton, who served this religious venue for 42 years. The structure that we see today was designed in Gothic Revival style by a New York designer - Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue. The first service held within its premises was the opening ceremony, which took place in June 1913. Throughout its existence, Trinity was always there to help people in need and the church still continues to provide aid to those who seek it.
4
First Baptist Church

4) First Baptist Church

First Baptist Church is a historic Baptist church located at Asheville, Buncombe County, North Carolina. It was designed by architect Douglas Ellington and built in 1925–1927. It is a four-story, domed, polygonal brick building with Art Deco design influences. The front facade features a colossal hectastyle portico.

It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.

Walking Tours in Asheville, North Carolina

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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.1 Km or 0.7 Miles
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