The Salt Lake Tabernacle

The Salt Lake Tabernacle is an iconic building located at Temple Square in Utah, United States. Here's a brief history of the Tabernacle and some tips for visiting:

The construction of the Salt Lake Tabernacle began in 1863 and was completed in 1875 under the direction of Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The building's unique design was the result of the collaboration between architect Truman O. Angell and engineer Henry Grow.

The Tabernacle is renowned for its architectural marvel, particularly its massive oval-shaped roof. The impressive roof, spanning 250 feet without any interior pillars, was a remarkable engineering feat at the time. The building's exterior features a mix of Gothic and Greek Revival styles.

One of the most striking features of the Tabernacle is its interior acoustics. The building can seat around 7,000 people, and despite its large size, even a pin drop can be heard from the pulpit due to the unique shape and construction materials.

In addition to hosting religious gatherings and conferences, the Salt Lake Tabernacle is also home to the world-famous Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, formerly known as the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The choir's weekly broadcasts, known as the "Music and the Spoken Word" program, have been running since 1929.

If you're planning to visit the Salt Lake Tabernacle, here are a few tips:

1. Timing: Check the schedule to see if there are any events or performances happening during your visit. Attending a choir rehearsal or a concert can enhance your experience.

2. Guided Tours: Take advantage of the free guided tours available at Temple Square. the Church’s missionary tour guides can provide insights into the Tabernacle's history, architecture, and its significance to the community.

3. Acoustical demonstration: While inside the Tabernacle, listen to the unique acoustics by dropping a pin or tearing a piece of paper. It's an intriguing experience to witness sound travel effortlessly throughout the space.

4. Explore Temple Square: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the rest of Temple Square, which includes other notable landmarks such as the Salt Lake Temple, the Assembly Hall, and various statues and gardens.

5. Visitor Centers: Visit the nearby visitor centers, such as the Joseph Smith Memorial Building or the Church History Museum, where you can learn more about the history and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Remember to be respectful during your visit, as the Salt Lake Tabernacle and Temple Square hold significant religious importance to members of the faith. Enjoy your time exploring this historic and culturally significant site!

To visit the Tabernacle for an organ recital on a sightseeing tour, visit this link: Salt Lake City Tour + Organ Recital