
Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in St. Louis, Missouri, United States
1. Gateway Arch
Iconic St. Louis monument symbolizing the city's role in westward expansion, offering an observation deck with stunning views.
- Architectural Marvel: A unique, stainless-steel structure designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen
- Historical Significance: Commemorates the westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century
- Panoramic Views: Offers spectacular views of St. Louis from its observation deck
2. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
The largest mosaic church in the world, featuring over 40 million pieces of beautiful tesserae.
- Mosaic Masterpiece: Boasts the largest collection of mosaics found anywhere on earth
- Historic Significance: A national historic landmark constructed between 1907 and 1914
- Religious Symbolism: Features over 8,500 individual scenes from the Old and New Testaments
3. Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows
A serene pilgrimage site where thousands gather each year for the National Shrine Novena.
- Pilgrimage Destination: One of the largest Marian shrines in the United States
- Religious Ceremonies: Offers daily Mass and other religious services for visitors
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Set in a tranquil, pastoral environment perfect for reflection and prayer
4. Holy Family Catholic Church
Historic church designed by renowned architect Francis J. Kimball with intricate stained-glass windows.
- Architectural Design: Designed by one of St. Louis' most respected architects, Francis J. Kimball
- Stained-glass Windows: Featuring stunning windows crafted by Louis Comfort Tiffany and John La Farge
- Historic Significance: Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974
5. St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Shrine
Honors the life and legacy of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, a French missionary who brought Catholic education to Native Americans.
- Missionary Legacy: Dedicated to a pioneering French missionary who established the first school for Native American girls
- Historic Site: Sits on the land where St. Rose lived and served from 1818 to 1840
- Peaceful Sanctuary: Offers a quiet, reflective space for visitors seeking solace and inspiration
6. Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows
A small, intimate chapel nestled within the picturesque Tower Grove Park.
- Park Location: Set inside the beautiful Tower Grove Park in South St. Louis
- Intimate Atmosphere: A small, cozy chapel perfect for quiet prayer and reflection
- Historic Significance: Constructed in 1870 as a memorial to the Virgin Mary
7. St. Francis de Sales Oratory
A stunning Baroque-style chapel featuring beautiful frescoes and ornate furnishings.
- Baroque Architecture: One of the few remaining examples of Baroque architecture in St. Louis
- Artistic Masterpieces: Features intricate frescoes by renowned artist Victor Schreckenberger
- Historic Significance: Originally built in 1846 as the first Catholic church west of the Mississippi River
8. Holy Infancy Church
An enchanting church with stunning stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture.
- Gothic Architecture: Features beautiful Gothic architecture, reminiscent of European cathedrals
- Stained-glass Windows: Boasts stunning stained-glass windows by Louis Comfort Tiffany and other renowned artists
- Historic Significance: Constructed in 1893, it is one of St. Louis' most historic churches
9. St. Alphonsus Liguori Church
A beautiful church with intricate details and a rich history, located in the heart of St. Louis.
- Intricate Details: Features stunning marble altars, ornate frescoes, and elaborate murals
- Historic Significance: Dedicated to St. Alphonsus Liguori, the founder of the Redemptorists
- Central Location: Situated in the vibrant and historic Soulard neighborhood
10. St. Boniface Church
An elegant church boasting impressive stained-glass windows and ornate furnishings.
- Stained-glass Windows: Featuring breathtaking stained-glass windows by John La Farge
- Historic Significance: Constructed in 1869 and is considered one of St. Louis' oldest churches
- Community Gathering Place: Serves as a community gathering place for cultural events, concerts, and other activities
11. St. Ferdinand Shrine
A beautiful shrine dedicated to St. Ferdinand III of Castile, offering a peaceful and reflective space for visitors.
- Spanish Patron Saint: Dedicated to St. Ferdinand III of Castile, one of Spain's most revered kings
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Set in a serene park setting perfect for prayer and reflection
- Historic Significance: Constructed between 1908 and 1936, it stands as a testament to St. Louis' rich history
12. Shrine of Our Lady of the Pillar
A beautiful shrine honoring the Virgin Mary and offering a serene space for prayer and reflection.
- Marian Devotion: Dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar, one of the oldest Marian titles in the world
- Tranquil Setting: Set within a picturesque garden, providing a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and meditation
- Historic Significance: Constructed in the early 1920s as a testament to Catholic devotion
13. St. Agnes Church and Rectory
A stunning church with beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate decorations.
- Stained-glass Windows: Featuring impressive stained-glass windows by John Gall
- Historic Significance: Constructed in 1897 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975
- Gothic Architecture: Inspired by Gothic architecture, with beautiful stone carvings and ornate details
14. St. Stanislaus Kostka Church
A charming Polish Catholic church known for its striking architecture and rich history.
- Polish Heritage: Celebrates the rich Polish heritage in St. Louis, with weekly Polish Masses
- Striking Architecture: Featuring beautiful terra cotta details and ornate furnishings
- Historic Significance: Constructed in 1906, it is one of St. Louis' oldest Polish parishes
15. St. Anthony of Padua Church
A beautiful church known for its stunning stained-glass windows and ornate decorations.
- Stained-glass Windows: Featuring breathtaking stained-glass windows by John Gall
- Historic Significance: Constructed in the early 20th century, it is a testament to St. Louis' architectural heritage
- Community Gathering Place: Serves as a community gathering place for cultural events, concerts, and other activities