Temple Square

Enclosed by a fifteen-foot wall, Temple Square stands as a beacon in Salt Lake City. It draws millions of visitors annually, rivaling even the Grand Canyon in popularity. Temple Square’s history intertwines with the very founding of Salt Lake City. In 1847, Brigham Young declared this ten-acre plot, initially called Temple Block, as the future site of a temple. Young’s vision laid the foundation for what Temple Square is today. The iconic wall surrounding Temple Square wasn’t just for aesthetics. Initially built in 1852, it served as a make-work project for new arrivals and those heading to California’s gold fields. It later protected the machinery used in constructing the buildings within. Temple Square houses not just one, but three assembly buildings. The smallest, the Salt Lake Assembly Hall, seats around 2,000. Completed in 1882, its Victorian Gothic architecture and symbolic Stars of David offer a unique experience. Then there’s the famed Salt Lake Tabernacle, home to the renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Built between 1864 and 1867, it can hold 8,000 people. Its remarkable acoustics are partly thanks to the 1870 addition of the gallery. Lastly, the LDS Conference Center, finished in 2000, dwarfs them both with a capacity exceeding 21,000. Beyond the grand structures, Temple Square holds hidden gems. A Cedar of Lebanon, planted in 1949, stands as a living testament to a young woman’s journey from Israel. This tree, a species mentioned in scripture, symbolizes a connection to the Holy Land. Another often-overlooked treasure is the United States Meridian Base. This monument marks the spot of an early scientific observatory. It contributed to establishing Mountain Standard Time, a scientific pursuit nestled within this place of faith. From this very spot, the Salt Lake Base and Meridian originates, a point from which all addresses in the city are measured. Temple Square is truly the center of it all. Even during the Christmas season, Temple Square transforms into a magical spectacle. With 100,000 lights adorning its trees and shrubs, it creates a festive atmosphere that captivates all who visit. So next time you’re at Temple Square, take a moment to appreciate not only the grandeur of the temple and tabernacle, but also the hidden stories whispered within the walls and gardens.