The Provo City Center Temple is one of the most unique temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in the heart of downtown Provo, Utah, it was built from the carefully preserved shell of the historic Provo Tabernacle, which was devastated by fire in 2010. The temple is the sixteenth temple built in Utah, the fourth temple in Utah County, the second temple in Provo, and the 150th dedicated temple of the Church.
A Brief History
The original Provo Tabernacle was constructed between 1883 and 1898 and served for well over a century as a center for worship, concerts, community gatherings, and stake conferences. On December 17, 2010, a devastating fire broke out inside the tabernacle, destroying nearly the entire interior while leaving much of the exterior brick walls standing. Many believed the historic building had been lost forever.
Less than a year later, during the October 2011 General Conference, President Thomas S. Monson made a surprise announcement that the burned tabernacle would be rebuilt as a temple. The unexpected announcement was met with audible excitement from those attending conference and quickly became one of the most memorable temple announcements in Church history.
Groundbreaking services were held on May 12, 2012, with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland presiding. Over the next four years, engineers and craftsmen carefully preserved the historic exterior while constructing an entirely new temple within it. Following a 43-day public open house from January 15 through March 5, 2016, President Henry B. Eyring dedicated the temple on March 20, 2016, making it the 150th dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Provo City Center Temple is unique because it transformed a beloved historic landmark into a sacred house of the Lord. Rather than demolishing the fire-damaged structure, the Church preserved the original exterior walls and restored many architectural details. Surviving wood moldings, stair balusters, and decorative elements from the tabernacle were used as templates to faithfully recreate the Victorian craftsmanship throughout the temple.
The temple contains approximately 85,084 square feet and features three progressive instruction rooms, five sealing rooms, and a baptistry. The elegant Victorian architecture includes stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, grand staircases, and soaring ceilings that reflect the beauty of the original tabernacle while serving the sacred purposes of a modern temple.
The grounds are equally impressive. Beautiful gardens surround the temple, and a Victorian-style pavilion provides a waiting area for guests and a gathering place for wedding parties. A magnificent 17-foot bronze fountain serves as one of the temple's signature features, while the restored 150-foot central tower recalls the original appearance of the Provo Tabernacle before it was removed during renovations in the early twentieth century.
Visiting the Temple
The Provo City Center Temple is located at 50 South University Avenue in Provo, Utah. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, or on-site distribution center. However, the beautifully landscaped grounds are open to the public, and the Victorian pavilion provides a welcoming space for visitors and wedding guests. Its downtown location also places it within walking distance of many restaurants, shops, and historic sites in Provo.
Fun Facts
- Sixteenth temple built in Utah.
- Fourth temple built in Utah County.
- Second temple built in Provo.
- 150th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on October 1, 2011.
- Groundbreaking held on May 12, 2012.
- Dedicated by President Henry B. Eyring on March 20, 2016.
- Public open house lasted 43 days.
- Approximately 85,084 square feet.
- Features three instruction rooms, five sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Built within the preserved shell of the historic Provo Tabernacle.
- Includes a Victorian pavilion and a 17-foot bronze fountain on the temple grounds.
- The restored central tower rises approximately 150 feet.
Final Thoughts
The Provo City Center Temple stands as a remarkable symbol of restoration, faith, and hope. Rising from the preserved walls of the historic Provo Tabernacle, it honors the past while serving future generations. Its breathtaking Victorian architecture, rich pioneer heritage, and central location make it one of the most memorable temples in the Church. Whether you're attending an ordinance or simply walking the peaceful grounds, the Provo City Center Temple is an unforgettable stop on any temple journey.
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