Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

A must for Catholics and history lovers alike. The first Catholic Church built in Atlanta, back when it was called Terminus (Walking Dead lovers delight !). The building is beautifully designed with a red brick façade. Inside the high ceiling is painted in portraits of many Saints. The nave features a high altar, evoking the pre-​Vatican II counsel era. Definitely worth a stop in if you’re in the area. The day I visited a very busy soup kitchen was serving the needy waiting outside.

Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the paragon of simple beauty. The church may lack the grandeur and the scale of a Catholic cathedral, but the Shrine nonetheless does not shy in serenity and majesty. Whether you are a Catholic or not, this historical church should be on your list of attractions to visit especially if you are in the Downtown area and enjoys history.
Located near the Georgia State Capitol and almost next door to the Central Presbyterian Church, the Catholic Shrine is one of the oldest churches in Georgia that was fortunate to survive the scathe of the Civil War (Or «The War Between the States» according to a nearby plaque).
The main church has only one large interior room, but within this room, you will find the sides flanked with gorgeous stained glass windows and paintings describing the Passion of Christ. The ceiling is adorned with eight large colorful portraits of Catholic saints. However, the main spotlight as you walked in the building is the ornate main altar. Absorb the serene atmosphere as you slowly walk toward the main altar to admire its detailed beauty!
If you are only visiting like me, this Shrine will take less than one hour, so why not visit this beautiful church if you are already nearby?

Located one block from the Georgia capital is one of the oldest churches in Atlanta. The Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception was saved from destruction by Sherman’s army in 1864 and also served as a hospital for both Union and Confederate troops. Today, it is apart of the bustling capital area. This church is no frills but that is what makes it unique compared to other parishes in the area. All people, from all walks of life, every background, socioeconomic level, every race feel at home here. It is really a welcoming parish that really walks the talk. There are businessman and lawmakers on their hour lunch praying next to homeless and less fortunate. Parking can be tough but they validate the garage across the street on weekends and I’ve never had trouble finding street parking. If you’re in the area, stop by for the awesome history lesson and if you’re Catholic and/​or looking for a parish, come by and see what makes the Shrine unique here in Atlanta.