Cathedral of the Madeleine, Salt Lake City (must see)

The Cathedral of the Madeleine, located in the heart of Salt Lake City, is a testament to Catholic presence in a city known as the headquarters of the Mormon faith. This impressive structure, completed in 1909 with land gifted by the Mormons and significant construction support from Mormon volunteers, serves as the mother church of the Diocese of Salt Lake City. The only cathedral in the United States dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene, its Neo-Romanesque sandstone exterior and cross-shaped layout honor its historical roots, while its Spanish Gothic-inspired interior, adorned with colorful ceiling murals, icons, and stained glass, adds a vibrant and sacred aesthetic.

The cathedral's contemporary Stations of the Cross include images influenced by the American Southwest alongside traditional iconography, showcasing a blend of religious and cultural significance. Inside, visitors will find a separate Blessed Sacrament Chapel, a baptismal font, and the resting place of Bishop Lawrence Scanlan, the diocese’s founding bishop who dedicated the cathedral. A relic of Saint Mary Magdalene, once housed here, was recently stolen in July 2024, marking a rare and unfortunate event for this cathedral, which was one of only two in the world with a first-class relic of the saint.

Renowned for its musical heritage, the Cathedral of the Madeleine hosts the only co-educational Catholic Choir School in the U.S., with choristers performing regularly and embarking on tours both nationally and internationally. Established in 1996, the Madeleine Choir School has become an integral part of the cathedral’s spiritual and cultural life, drawing audiences from far and wide. Visitors can explore this remarkable place, though those wishing to walk freely through the cathedral should avoid visiting during services. With its rich history, unique architectural details, and active role in the arts, the Cathedral of the Madeleine is both a spiritual landmark and a cultural treasure in Salt Lake City.