Churches are inherently beautiful, but there’s a handful right here in Texas guaranteed to absolutely take your breath away. Hiding in and around the small town of Pflugerville, the “Painted Churches” prove that Old World European architecture is still alive and well in the 21st century.
Although undeniably majestic, nothing about this church appears out-of-the-ordinary judging by its exterior. That all changes, however, when you walk through the doors and revel in the extraordinary majesty waiting inside.
Flickr/donahos
Czech and German immigrants settled the tiny East Texas town of Schulenburg and surrounding communities several centuries ago. One of the first things on their agenda was building majestic, opulent churches reminiscent of their homelands.
Flickr/bfs_man
Due to their intricate artwork, the buildings have been dubbed “Painted Churches.” There are 20 in total, each one having earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Flickr/bfs_man
St. Mary’s Parish dates back to 1855 when it was constructed with stone brought in from a nearby village by oxen. A Swiss artist covered the walls in elaborate paintings which still remain in their original condition today.
Flickr/donahos
This is Saints Cyril and Methodius Church, whose ceiling resembles the sky of a cloudless summer afternoon. It was initially constructed in the late 1800s, but unfortunately a 1909 fire devastated the church. A replacement was built just three years later — while it will never be quite like its predecessor, many valuable artifacts were able to be salvaged and put on display.
Flickr/caspencer15
Just six miles away is St. Mary’s Catholic Church in High Hill. Despite being one of the newest of the bunch (taking renovations into account), its been nicknamed “Queen of the Painted Churches” due to its sheer size and grandiosity.
Google/Jason Wilde
Visitors can explore the churches at their leisure between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Alternatively, call (979) 743-4514 to book a guided van tour.
Google/Sasch Mayer
Have you ever been to any of the painted churches? If so, which one is your favorite? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more breathtaking houses of worship in Texas: 10 Beautiful Churches In Texas That Will Take Your Breath Away.
Flickr/donahos
Flickr/bfs_man
Flickr/caspencer15
Google/Jason Wilde
Google/Sasch Mayer
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