Mount St. Sepulchre Franciscan Monastery

Mount St. Sepulchre Franciscan Monastery is a monastery built in Byzantine Revival style with elaborate domes, rounded arches, and detailed stonework throughout its exterior and interior. The structures spread across spacious grounds that include gardens and multiple connected buildings forming a cohesive religious compound.

The monastery was founded in 1899 under architect Aristide Leonori and reflects the ideals of Byzantine architectural style. It was established as a center for the Franciscan order in America and has remained an active religious community since its creation.

The monastery serves as a center for the Franciscan order in the region, with its spaces actively used by monks who maintain daily religious practices. The site reflects how the community honors its spiritual traditions through both architecture and regular worship.

The site is open to visitors daily and offers guided tours to help understand the architecture and spiritual significance. Comfortable shoes are recommended since exploring the grounds and multiple buildings requires walking through various areas.

The monastery holds replicas of sacred sites including the Grotto of Nazareth and the Tomb of the Virgin Mary, making it a spiritual pilgrimage destination. These reproductions allow visitors to experience holy places without traveling to the Holy Land itself.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1899

Architects: Aristide Leonori

Architectural style: Byzantine Revival architecture

Website: https://myfranciscan.org

GPS coordinates: 38.93750,-76.98531

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44