Nestled near Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Thorncrown Chapel is a tribute to architectural brilliance.
Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School, the 1980 chapel was created by E. Fay Jones on a commission from retired teacher Jim Reed. A place of non-denominational pilgrimage and meditation became a reality thanks to Reed's vision. Inspired by the Gothic Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, which is well-known for its stained glass, Thorncrown's design expertly mixes modernity and tradition.
The chapel's name, which alludes to Sainte-Chapelle's artifacts, particularly the Crown of Thorns, which is thought to have crowned Christ, is an homage to both history and faith. Thorncrown Chapel's spiritual heritage is enhanced by this relationship.
Thorncrown Chapel: A 1971 Vision of Serenity in Arkansas Foothills
Jim Reed, a retired teacher, commissioned a non-denominational pilgrimage chapel in 1971 with the intention of creating a tranquil haven in the foothills close to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. He chose a remote area in the middle of the forest, determined to establish a meditation retreat.
Entrusted with the project, architect E. Fay Jones took inspiration from the famous Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, which is well-known for its interior that resembles a gem. This concept gave rise to Thorncrown Chapel, which blends in perfectly with the surroundings.
With its variety of glass types and tiny stained-glass windows that provide an exquisite play of light throughout the chapel, Jones' design reflects the Gothic charm of Sainte-Chapelle.
Thorncrown Chapel - Design
The chapel has an eye-catching style and stands an astonishing 48 feet high, 24 feet wide, and 60 feet long. With 425 windows or an astounding 6,000 square feet of glass, it blends in perfectly with the surrounding natural environment.
In an effort to maintain the site's natural setting, architect E. Fay Jones kept structural components small enough for two men to carry through the forest. The chapel embodies northwest Arkansas, built using locally produced elements like flagstone and pressure-treated Southernwood. The ornate roof skylight has been thoughtfully enlarged to provide more natural light throughout the chapel's interior.
Despite its outside appearance, the chapel astonishes guests by being a completely air-conditioned, enclosed area that can hold up to 100 people. It provides free entry and welcomes visitors every day from March through December, fostering an inclusive environment for reflection.
Beyond its physical walls, the chapel serves a purpose beyond religion. Nondenominational church services are also held in the adjoining worship center every Sunday from April through December.
Thorncrown Chapel - Awards
The American Institute of Architects' 2006 Twenty-five Year Award was given to the chapel in recognition of its outstanding artistic merit. Acknowledging itself even more, in 2000 it was included to the National Register of Historic Places, an honor usually bestowed upon buildings that are at least fifty years old unless they are considered to be of extraordinary significance.
Of particular note were its inclusions in Budget Travel's prestigious list of the "12 Most Beautiful Churches in America" and its significant placement on Bored Panda's list of the "50 Most Extraordinary Churches Of The World." Such honors highlight this architectural masterpiece's timeless influence and visual appeal.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thorncrown_Chapel
- https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/thorncrown-chapel
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