Ste. Anne De Detroit Is Oldest Parish In The Motor City

If you’re a history buff, Detroit offers more than its fair share of fascinating spots to explore. From Underground Railroad sites to long-standing bars, there are countless storied destinations in and around the Motor City. One such spot brings a unique combination of architecture, history, and spirituality to the area – and you’ll want to visit for yourself.

Note: for the purposes of this story, the term “church” represents the parish as a whole instead of the physical church building alone. While St. John’s Episcopal Church in Detroit was constructed prior to the current Ste. Anne’s basilica, the roots of Ste. Anne’s are significantly older.

Ste. Anne de Detroit Catholic Church is located at 1000 St. Anne Street in Detroit.

This marvelous structure is the current home of Detroit’s oldest parish, which was founded all the way back in July of 1701 by French colonists. Talk about genuine history.

While the physical church building has gone through many iterations over the years, there’s an incredible sense of timeless wonder and spiritual beauty at this magnificent spot.

The current cathedral was constructed in 1886 and features a stunning Gothic Revival style. A series of fires beginning in the early 1700s has caused Ste. Anne’s multiple reconstructions.

In addition to its historic status within the Motor City, Ste. Anne’s boasts the title of America’s second-oldest continuously-operating Catholic parish. Does it get much more fascinating?

When you step inside the church today, you’ll find relics of the church’s earliest days alongside many modern additions. From towering frescoes to stained glass, there’s much to see.

Whether you’re here for a wedding, a standard mass, or another service, you’ll find yourself immersed in a sense of serenity. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate Ste. Anne’s.

Public masses are held throughout the week in English and Spanish, while general visitors can contact the church ahead of time to schedule a tour. Ste. Anne’s will capture your heart.

Have you attended mass at Ste. Anne’s or stopped by to experience its history and beauty? We’d love to hear your favorite memories of this fascinating Detroit destination, so leave us a Facebook comment. To recommend another must-see spot for local history buffs, fill out our nomination form here.

Can’t get enough history? Check out these vintage photos of Detroit’s streets.

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Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit, 1000 St Anne St, Detroit, MI 48216, USA

The Oldest Church In Detroit, Ste. Anne’s, Dates Back To The 1700s And You Need To See It

Sophie Boudreau

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