Chicago, Illinois
Chicago Temple: The World's Highest Skyscraper Sanctuary
Chicago, Illinois, United States
By the Wicked Cool Places editors · Published
Why it’s cool
This Gothic skyscraper holds the title of the world's tallest church building, featuring a sanctuary tucked inside a spire high above the city.
In the heart of the Loop, a Gothic spire rises among the glass and steel of the financial district. This is the Chicago Temple, the home of the First United Methodist Church of Chicago.
While many congregations migrated to the suburbs following World War I, this community chose to remain in the urban center. They commissioned the architectural firm Holabird and Roche to design a structure that combined a traditional house of worship with a modern office tower.
The result is a 21 story skyscraper that reaches 568 feet toward the clouds.
Why It Stands Out
The building holds an odd distinction as the tallest structure in the world dedicated to a church. While the first floor contains a massive sanctuary capable of seating 1,000 people, the floors above are a mix of sacred and secular spaces.
The middle levels are leased to various professional firms, including many legal offices. The nearby Money Museum is also located within the city's financial district.
However, the true marvel is the Sky Chapel. Located 400 feet above the pavement within the base of the steeple, this small sanctuary offers a quiet retreat from the urban noise.
The main sanctuary on the ground floor has stained glass of its own. Instead of focusing solely on biblical narratives, the windows include depictions of the local Chicago skyline and the regional institutions that have supported the congregation since its founding in 1831.
Before You Go
The building is located on Washington Street between Dearborn and Clark. While the upper floors are primarily used for business, the church still maintains an active schedule of services.
Visitors should note that access to the highest levels often requires joining a scheduled tour or attending a specific service. The Sky Chapel regularly hosts prayer services and quiet gatherings throughout the week, providing a rare opportunity to experience a spiritual space high above the city streets.
The Willis Tower Glass Platform offers another perspective of the city from a great height.
Questions worth answering
What makes this building different from other skyscrapers in the Loop?
It is the tallest church structure on the planet. The Gothic spire houses a sanctuary while the rest of the tower contains professional offices.
Can I see the chapel located inside the steeple?
The Sky Chapel sits four hundred feet above the street level. You can reach it by joining a tour or attending one of the scheduled prayer services.
When are the tours held?
The published schedule is 2:00 p.m. at the second floor office any day except Sunday, with 9:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. slots on Sundays. Confirm before you go, because tours have not always run.
What will I see in the windows of the main sanctuary?
The stained glass doesn't just stick to the bible. You'll see the local skyline and various regional institutions depicted in the artwork.
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