New Old South Church, Boston

Located at the corner of Boylston and Dartmouth streets, the New Old South Church is one of Boston's most visually captivating buildings. The name may seem a bit contradictory, but it has a historical reason: the congregation that originally met at Downtown's Old South Meeting House outgrew its space and relocated here in 1875. Notably, the Old South Meeting House counted among its members some illustrious historical figures, including Benjamin Franklin, Phillis Wheatley, Samuel Adams, and even Mother Goose.

The church's Italian Gothic design is a sight to behold, with its most striking feature being the 220-foot bell tower crowned with a copper-roof lantern replete with metallic gargoyles in the form of dragons. The dramatic zebra-striped archways on the Dartmouth Street side are also notable. This style is influenced by the ideas of British cultural theorist and critic John Ruskin (1819鈥�1900), as outlined in his treatise "The Stones of Venice", and stands as one of the most significant examples of Ruskin's influence on American architecture.

The interior is equally alluring, featuring dark woods set against a rose-colored backdrop and 15th-century, English-style stained-glass windows. Locally, this is known as the "Church of the Finish Line" due to its location just beyond the Boston Marathon's official finish line.

Why You Should Visit:
Beautiful example of "Venetian Gothic" church architecture. The ornate wood pews, stunning stained glass, and intricate architectural details all testify to its mid-19th-century construction. The vibrancy of the colors is unreal, especially when illuminated by the sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows.

Tip:
If possible, try to time your visit with a scheduled concert, as you may have the opportunity to enjoy an organ performance.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: New Old South Church
Sight Location: Boston, USA (See walking tours in Boston)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Historical Churches Walking Tour

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