El Pueblo de los Ángeles Historical Monument in northern downtown Los Angeles is home to the Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels, the oldest surviving building in L.A. The church has a fascinating history dating back to 1814, when it was founded by the 19th century Spanish during the time of Spanish rule and known as Alta California in the Viceroyalty of New Spain. Today, it remains an active Catholic church, with Mass celebrated regularly.
Enter the Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels through the ornate wooden doors and step into a graceful, open space decorated in a combination of traditional and contemporary styles. The raised sanctuary with its crowned ceiling has been an anchor to the Los Angeles community for nearly 150 years. It’s no wonder that tens of thousands of visitors come to this Franciscan chapel every year.
The Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels (Spanish: La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora Reina de los The Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels is more than just an architectural wonder, it is a pilgrimage site for tens of thousands of devoted followers who come annually to honor Our Lady Queen of the Angels. This church sets the mood for family and religion, making the location so unique.
El Pueblo de los Ángeles Historical Monument, where the Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels is located, is a historical district that showcases Los Angeles’ past. The church is just one of the many fascinating structures that reflect the city’s rich history.
The Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels is not only the oldest surviving building in Los Angeles, but it is also rich in history and famous people associated with it. One of the most prominent figures is Father Junipero Serra, who founded the first nine of California’s 21 missions, including this church. Father Serra was canonized by the Catholic Church in 2015, and his statue now stands outside the church.
Another notable figure associated with the church is Helen Hunt Jackson, who was an author and activist in the late 1800s. She was an advocate for Native American rights and used her writing to bring attention to their mistreatment. Jackson converted to Catholicism in 1884 and was baptized at the Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels.
The church has undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions over the years. Visiting the Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels is a step back in time and a journey into the rich history of Los Angeles. Its timeless beauty and historical significance make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.
Make a stop at the Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels to discover its rich history, and to see first-hand the beauty of this historic Roman Catholic church.
All images above are shot by me and copyrighted.
