Episcopal Church of the Nativity 🇺🇸

If you appreciate historic architecture, the Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Huntsville, Alabama, is a must-see destination. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1990, this 1859 sanctuary is celebrated as one of the South's most pristine examples of Ecclesiological Gothic architecture. It stands out as one of the least-altered structures created by architect Frank Wills and remains one of only thirteen surviving houses of worship he designed in the United States.

Built in a brick Gothic Revival style inspired by 14th-century English Middle Pointed design, you can marvel at its striking exterior featuring 22,500 custom hand-fabricated interlocking copper shingles on the roof—a detail that earned a North American Copper in Architecture Award following a major restoration completed in 2011. Outside, you will notice six buttressed bays with traceried windows and a monumental 151-foot three-stage bell tower topped by an octagonal spire. Step through the original double wooden doors to explore an interior framed by plaster-over-brick walls, heart pine floors, and exposed structural oak timbers forming an arched pattern across the wooden ceiling.

In the semi-octagonal apse, look for three large figural lancet windows retaining their original stained and painted glass beneath a ribbed vault with decorated boss caps.

What to see at Episcopal Church of the Nativity

• National Historic Landmark built in 1859 and designed by architect Frank Wills
• Award-winning roof crafted from 22,500 custom interlocking copper shingles
• Monumental 151-foot three-stage bell tower with an octagonal spire
• Exposed structural oak timber ceiling and original stained and painted glass apse windows

Visiting tips

Take time to step inside through the original double wooden doors to admire the original stained glass windows and the intricate oak timber ceiling.

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

How to get there & what’s nearby

Episcopal Church of the Nativity is easy to reach on Huntsville’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Huntsville travel guide.