Saint Francis De Sales Catholic Church, Gothic Revival Catholic church in East Walnut Hills, Cincinnati, United States
Saint Francis De Sales Catholic Church is a Gothic Revival church in the East Walnut Hills neighborhood of Cincinnati, built in stone with pointed arches and a tower that rises above the surrounding streets. The interior features hand-crafted woodwork and onyx decorative elements throughout the worship space.
The church was designed by architect Francis G. Himpler and completed in 1879 to serve the growing Catholic community in the neighborhood. Nearly a century later, in 1974, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The church is named after Francis de Sales, a French bishop known for his gentle approach to faith and spiritual guidance. Inside, the use of onyx as a decorative material gives the space a warm glow that sets it apart from most churches of its kind.
The building has stairs at the entrance and throughout the interior, so comfortable footwear is a good idea. Visiting during a regular service gives a fuller sense of how the space is used by the community.
The church is home to a massive bell known as Big Joe, said to be among the largest ever cast in the country. Most visitors walk through without realizing the bell is there, drawn instead by the stonework and interior details.
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