St. Thomas of Villanova Church

St. Thomas of Villanova Church features two 137-foot-tall spires with eight-sided towers, reaching higher than any structure between Delaware River and Lancaster.

The construction of the church began in 1883 with architect Edwin F. Durang's design, and Bishop Jeremiah F. Shanahan blessed the cornerstone that same year.

The interior space measures 60 feet wide and 143 feet long, incorporating Italian marble altars and Indiana stone filigree within its Victorian Gothic design.

The church operates as both a university chapel and parish church, providing regular services while accommodating student weddings and university community gatherings.

The twin spires of the church draw inspiration from France's Cathedral of Chartres, making them recognizable symbols of Villanova University's campus skyline.

Location: Pennsylvania

Inception: 1887

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://stthomasofvillanova.org

GPS coordinates: 40.03770,-75.33750

Latest update: March 3, 2025 16:14