St. Paul's Chapel
St. Paul's Chapel is New York's oldest public building in continuous use
New York's oldest public building in continuous use, St. Paul's Chapel, opened in 1766 and is still an active part of Trinity Church. Completed in 1766, the Georgian chapel was spared from the fire that consumed lower Manhattan that same year by the heroic efforts by a bucket brigade.
In the aftermath of the fire, St. Paul's Chapel served as a refuge and relief center for hundreds of homeless New Yorkers, a role it reprised 225 years later in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Memorials and items sent to encourage the rescue workers during New York City's darkest days are still on display in an interactive exhibit.
While New York was the nation's capital from 1788 to 1790, St. Paul's congregation included George Washington and many of the founding fathers who were drawn to the intimate chapel. Visitors to St. Paul's Chapel can see Washington's original church pew and an exquisite 18th century oil painting of the Great Seal of the United States.
Surrounding St. Paul's Chapel, a churchyard with pre-Revolutionary War graves and memorials to Revolutionary War heroes. Interments ceased in the beginning of the 19th century and recently underwent a restoration in 2002 to remove damaging debris that blanketed the cemetery following September 11, 2001. The Bell of Hope, a gift from St. Paul's sister church in London was installed following the restoration to commemorate the events at the World Trade Center and the parish's mission work.
Today, St. Paul's Chapel is an active part of the Trinity Church parish holding daily mass, concerts lectures welcoming visitors from all backgrounds. The practice of daily Prayers for Peace and Reconciliation rose out of the community's need for healing in the aftermath of 9/11 and continues daily at midday.
Nearby attractions include Trinity Church and the Financial District.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoSt. Paul's Chapel Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 209 Broadway, New York, NY 10007, USA
Phone: (212) 602-0800
Official Website: St. Paul's Chapel
St. Paul's Chapel Reviews
Rated out of 5
Visiting St. Paul’s Chapel near the World Trade Center is a poignant experience that beautifully blends history and tranquility. This historic church, known as the “Little Chapel that Stood,” served as a place of refuge and support for first responders during and after the 9/11 attacks. Inside, the chapel is serene, with memorials and artifacts that honor those affected by the tragedy. The architecture is stunning, and the peaceful ambiance provides a moment of reflection amid the bustling city. It’s a meaningful stop for anyone wanting to pay their respects and learn more about the resilience of New York City in the face of adversity.
Arosha Weerakkody - a month ago
St. Paul’s Chapel is a great addition to find a moment of peace and quiet in New York. If you are doing a 9/11 tour of different places it’s a must stop by. There wasn’t a wait to walk into the chapel, and the people at the door were super friendly. There wasn’t a time limit to be in the building. I spent about 15 minutes relaxing and checking out the displays they had. Next time I hope I’m available when they have a service to check it out.
Nicole Wright - 2 months ago
Visiting the Chapel put us in the reverential frame of mind that prepared us for the 9/11 Memorial. The Chapel was quiet and allowed us time to read the information and take in both its early U.S. historical significance and its role in caring for the first responders to the WTC tragedy. Walking through the Chapel's graveyard was the perfect reflective transition to then walk to the 9/11 Memorial.
Joan Showalter - a week ago
The St. Paul's Chapel, located in New York City, is a true architectural and spiritual treasure. Its Gothic design, which evokes the greatness of European cathedrals, contrasts with the bustle of the city that surrounds it, creating a space of serenity and reflection in the midst of urban hustle and bustle.
The interior of the chapel is equally impressive, with its high vaulted ceilings, colorful stained glass windows and an atmosphere of devotion that invites contemplation. In addition to its architectural beauty, the Chapel of St. Paul is known for its rich history and its role as the center of the community for more than 150 years.
The religious services that are held here are welcoming and inclusive, attracting people from all beliefs and backgrounds. In addition to religious ceremonies, the chapel also hosts a variety of cultural and musical events that enrich the life of the community.
In short, the St. Paul's Chapel is a unique place in the heart of New York, where architectural beauty is combined with spirituality and community, creating an experience worth experiencing.
Néstor Reyes - 6 months ago
I found the cemetery very nice. There are some small plaques with short life stories of certain people resting here.
Victoria Lengei - 2 months ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| E | World Trade Center | 2 minutes |
| 4 or 5 | Fulton Street | 2 minutes |
How to get to St. Paul's Chapel by Subway
Take the E train to the World Trade Center, head southwest on Vessey Street, turn left on Church Street, turn right on Broadway or take a 4 or 5 train to Fulton Street, walk north on Broadway.
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Photo Gallery
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Interior of St Pauls Chapel in New York City cc licensed photo by Vincent Desjardins -
Photo Credit: Charlie Phillips - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: ajay_suresh - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Charlie Phillips - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Charlie Phillips - cc license via Flickr
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