Colorado is home to more stunning churches than we can count as well as chapels that are historically significant but do you know which Centennial State church is the oldest (and arguably most stunning) of all? If not, you will want to get acquainted with the gorgeous Our Lady of Guadeloupe, AKA the oldest church in Colorado:

Located in the tiny southern Colorado town of Conejos (population 25), Our Lady of Guadeloupe Catholic Church was founded in 1858 and is still used today. 
Smithat88/Wikimedia Commons
Established by French missionary Joseph Machebeuf, Our Lady of Guadeloupe was founded in an effort to introduce the Catholic faith to the area, which he initially did via a small adobe chapel.
Google/Joshua Stock
Though it took several years to officially complete, Our Lady of Guadeloupe was finally finished and dedicated in late 1863, followed by the arrival of a group of Jesuit Fathers who came in 1871 and created the Guadalupe parish.
Google/Don Bri

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Despite a devastating electrical fire in 1926, Our Lady of Guadeloupe still stands in its original location and can even be visited today! 
Google/Jonathan Thorne
Like many of our favorite churches, Our Lady of Guadeloupe boasts not only a cathedral-like exterior but also jaw-dropping stained glass, intricate artwork and statues, a marble altar, and a warm and welcoming congregation. 
Google/Caitlin Realize
Please note: Our Lady of Guadeloupe is open to visitors on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer. Otherwise, it hosts mass every Sunday at 11 a.m. year-round. 
Google/J. Andrew Swanson
To learn more about Colorado's oldest church, please visit the Our Lady of Guadeloupe website.
Google/Colorado Tourism Office

Do you have a favorite place that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? Nominate it here! For even more must-see Centennial State churches, check out these 10 Stunning Colorado Churches That Will Make Your Heart Sing.

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Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, 305 W 8th Ave, Antonito, CO 81120, USA