Church of the Assumption 🇺🇸

Located at 51 West Seventh Street in downtown Saint Paul, the Church of the Assumption offers you a direct connection to Minnesota's history. Dedicated in 1874, this historic site holds the distinction of being the oldest existing church in Saint Paul and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The parish was originally founded in 1856 by Bishop Joseph Crétin to serve arriving German immigrants. Built between 1869 and 1874 out of Lake Superior limestone, the structure features a plain neo-Romanesque style.

It was designed by Bavarian court architect Joseph Reidel and modeled after the Ludwigskirche in Munich. Stepping inside, you will find an interior design that has remained substantially unchanged since the late 19th century. As you explore, you can admire historic artworks, including tapestries depicting the Good Samaritan and the Sts. Peter and Clemens Society.

You will also see shrines dedicated to Thérèse of Lisieux and Maria-Hilf, as well as altars honoring Saint Joseph, Saint Lawrence, Saint John the Baptist, and the Blessed Mother. Don't miss the high altar, which holds the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary brought over from the parish's very first stone chapel.

What to see at Church of the Assumption

• Saint Paul's oldest existing church, listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• Lake Superior limestone exterior modeled after Munich's Ludwigskirche
• Interior design substantially unchanged since the late 19th century
• High altar featuring a historic statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Visiting tips

When you visit, be sure to look for the high altar's statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which was preserved from the parish's original 1856 building.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Church of the Assumption is easy to reach on Saint Paul’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Minnesota State Capitol and Cathedral of Saint Paul, National Shrine of the Apostle Paul. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Saint Paul travel guide.