Kansas has a bum rap as a boring state without much culture. Of course, if you’ve spent any time here, you know that’s patently false. For example, there’s no shortage of museums or beautiful churches in Kansas. One of the most stunning is tucked away in the tiny little unincorporated community of St. Benedict. This small town near Seneca only has a population of around 50 people, but it’s home to one of the state’s most magnificent places of worship. Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict is filled with beautiful paintings that make it look like a miniature Sistine Chapel in Kansas.

The Sistine Chapel is possibly the most famous church in the world. Built in 1483, this Vatican City landmark is home to a ceiling painted by Renaissance master painter Michelangelo.
Web Gallery of Art/Wikimedia Commons
We may not have anything painted by Michelangelo here, but the Saint Mary's Catholic Church near Seneca, KS is quite beautiful its own right.
S/Google Local
Construction on the church was completed in 1894. The church was built of limestone that was quarried from just a few miles away.
Michael Farlow/Google Local

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 One Of The Oldest Churches In Kansas Dates Back To The 1800s And Has A Fascinating History

One Of The Oldest Churches In Kansas Dates Back To The 1800s And Has A Fascinating History
Much of the elaborate ornamentation that makes this place so special was not added until later. The paintings on the ceiling were completed by George Satory, who painted more than 150 churches during his lifetime.
Robert Aubry/Google Local
Saint Mary's in St. Benedict is one of the best-preserved examples of Sartory's work.
From the wood-working to the paintings to the sculptures, this is a truly awe-inspiring place.
Harland Schuster/Google Local
The windows here are particularly magnificent, especially on the church's wings. There, you'll find 12 different saints depicted on hand-painted glass.
Cody Sperl/Google Local
Nothing can compare to the grandeur of the Sistine Chapel, but this beautiful church in Kansas is certainly a good substitution if you can't make it out to Italy.
Robert Aubry/Google Local

For more information about this amazing miniature Sistine Chapel in Kansas, check out the Saint Mary’s Church website or Saint Mary’s Church Facebook page.

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St. Mary's Catholic Church, St. Benedict, Main St, Seneca, KS 66538, USA