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One of the most popular tourist destinations

History of Temple Square

A place you won’t want to miss.

Temple Square is a 10-acre complex located in the heart of Salt Lake City, Utah, and is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). It serves as its global headquarters and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. This iconic landmark has a rich history that dates back to the city's founding in 1847.

The area that eventually became Temple Square was originally part of what is now called the Old Fort, which served as a refuge for early Mormon settlers from persecution in other parts of the United States. In 1847, Brigham Young and around 143 pioneers arrived at this location and surveyed a one-mile square for the future site of Salt Lake City. This area was chosen as the city center, and a meetinghouse, schoolhouse, armory, tabernacle, and tithing office were all built within this one square mile.

Construction

In 1853 Brigham Young announced that the cornerstone of a temple would be laid at Temple Square. Construction began in 1853 and the Salt Lake Temple was completed in 1893 after 40 years of labor. The temple's exterior is made from a unique quartz monzonite found only near Little Cottonwood Canyon and has six spires stretching toward the sky.

Over time, more buildings were added to Temple Square such as the Assembly Hall, Joseph Smith Memorial Building, Lion House, and the Beehive House. The Salt Lake Tabernacle was constructed in 1867 as a meetinghouse for Latter-day Saints to gather for worship services. The iconic building is famous for its acoustics and has housed many concerts and events over the years.

The grounds of Temple Square are also home to the Family History Library, which is the largest genealogical library in the world. This library serves as a resource for people across the globe who are interested in researching their family history. The Church History Museum and Church Office Building are also located on Temple Square.

South Visitors' Center

In addition to the buildings and grounds, Temple Square is home to a number of monuments, sculptures, and art pieces. The South Visitors’ Center houses artifacts from Church history as well as displays that incorporate interactive elements and videos. A beautiful sculpture garden is also located on the property and features more than 18 bronze statues depicting scenes from LDS scripture.
The grounds around the Salt Lake Temple are landscaped with trees and shrubs, and a reflecting pool is located in the center of the main plaza. There are also gardens, fountains and statues found throughout the grounds which enhance its beauty even further.

Assembly Hall

The Assembly Hall is one of the most visited places in Salt Lake City. The Assembly Hall is an octagonal building that was originally built as a meetinghouse for Latter-day Saints who wished to gather outside the Salt Lake Temple. Today, it is open to visitors who wish to learn more about the history of Temple Square and admire its intricate stained glass windows.

Family History Library

The Family History Library is a popular destination for people from around the world looking to learn more about their family’s history. The library contains records and resources available to anyone interested in researching their family lineage. It also offers classes, workshops, and other resources to help individuals trace their ancestry.

Temple Square in the Twentieth Century

Temple Square has served as a major gathering site for Latter-day Saints since the early days of the church. In the twentieth century, it has become a popular tourist destination for those who want to learn more about the culture of Salt Lake City and the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Temple Square has also been the site of many important religious events, including general conferences for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These conferences are broadcast around the world and feature addresses from church leaders and music from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Temple Square Today

Temple Square is an important part of Salt Lake City and the LDS Church today. Visitors can take guided tours, attend conferences and concerts, or simply enjoy the beauty of this historic place. Temple Square is truly a symbol of faith and hope for those who visit it and serves as an important reminder of the Prophet Joseph Smith’s vision of establishing a city in the desert. It is definitely worth visiting if you ever find yourself in Salt Lake City.

Temple Square is open to the public and is a major tourist attraction in Salt Lake City. Over 2 million visitors visit each year from around the world. Visitors can learn about the history of the Church through guided tours, attend concerts and conferences, or simply enjoy the beauty of this iconic landmark. Temple Square is a place that brings together faith, culture, and history in one place. No matter your religious beliefs, Temple Square is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Salt Lake City.

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