Christ Cathedral
13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, California
Designed by postmodernist architect Philip Johnson, the Crystal Cathedral was built in the shape of a four-pointed star and boasts 10,661 windows, seating capacity for 3,000, and an organ with 17,106 pipes. The structure anchors a vast campus of gardens, reflecting pools, fountains, and sculptures, including a Gothic prayer chapel.
You don't have to be religious to appreciate the architecture of the Crystal Cathedral. Visitors of all faiths are welcome on the 34-acre (14-hectare) grounds for self-guided or docent-led tours through the cathedral and other facilities, including the Memorial Gardens, Cathedral Cultural Center, Tower of Hope, and Arboretum.
- The Crystal Cathedral is a must-visit for spiritual travelers and architecture buffs.
- Docent-led tours of the cathedral last 30 to 45 minutes.
- Masses at the Crystal Cathedral are celebrated in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese at different times.
Crystal Cathedral is located in Garden Grove, about 10 minutes southeast of Disneyland. The best way to get here is by driving; take Interstate 5 to the State College Boulevard/The City Drive exit.
The cathedral is open for cultural visits Monday to Saturday. Masses are held on Sunday for those who’d like to attend a worship service.
The Crystal Cathedral has long been known for its music program, thanks in part to its magnificent pipe organ. It’s the largest European-built instrument in the United States—and one of the largest on the planet.
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