Downtown Presbyterian Church - Assumption Church
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Downtown Presbyterian Church

4.5
·108 reviews·Nashville, United States

A historic Nashville landmark featuring stunning Egyptian Revival architecture and a rich Civil War past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Community breakfast & outreach

CrowdMedium
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Downtown Presbyterian Church - Assumption Church

Downtown Presbyterian Church

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Community breakfast & outreach

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Nashville landmark featuring stunning Egyptian Revival architecture and a rich Civil War past.

4.5
(108 reviews)

"The church is so rich in history and the Egyptian Revival architecture is fascinating."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Sanctuary Tours

Look out for free sanctuary tours; they offer a fascinating glimpse into the church's history.

🎶 Candlelight Concerts

Experience magical candlelight concerts featuring classical music for a unique evening.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Egyptian Revival Architecture

Egyptian Revival Architecture

Marvel at the unique and grand Egyptian Revival design, a true architectural gem in Nashville.

Reddit
Civil War Hospital History

Civil War Hospital History

Discover its poignant past as a hospital during the American Civil War, a significant historical role.

TikTok
Art Installations & Concerts

Art Installations & Concerts

Experience vibrant art exhibitions and captivating classical music concerts held within its historic walls.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History & Architecture

Step into a piece of Nashville's past at the Downtown Presbyterian Church. Admire its stunning Egyptian Revival architecture and learn about its Civil War hospital history. Tours are often available, offering a deeper dive into its rich heritage. Reddit

Check for Events & Tours

Beyond Sunday services, this historic gem hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and community events. Check their schedule for unique experiences like candlelight concerts or art crawls. Tours can offer fascinating insights into the building's past. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Community breakfast & outreach
Crowd
Medium
When
During Art Crawls
Why
Art installations & lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Welcoming services & history
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stumbled across this cool gothic-style Presbyterian church while at the fair — doors were open and they happened to be giving tours, so of course I had to check it out! . . #freewill #fyp
@erikadidwhaaat
6K likes • 55.3K views

🎯 Free Sanctuary Tours

Look out for free sanctuary tours; they offer a fascinating glimpse into the church's history. TikTok

🎶 Candlelight Concerts

Experience magical candlelight concerts featuring classical music for a unique evening. Instagram

Thank you to everyone who came out to the Downtown Presbyterian Church for Nashville Pantheon’s presentation of my solo exhibition The Weight during the Downtown Artwalk. If you missed it, the installation will be open again Saturday, September 13th from 6-9pm. I want to specifically thank @dpcnashville for opening their space to the work and @nashvillepantheon and the curatorial team Ashley Lay...
mcfahnestock
70 likes • 768 views
Music City means all kinds! The Downtown Presbyterian Church Candlelight Concert tonight featured Vivaldi with the Listeso String Quartet. The stillness of the candlelight was a mystical backdrop for this beautiful performance. #stringquartet #stringquartets #vivaldi #classicalmusic #candlelight #candlelightconcert #travel #tourism #travelandtourism #airbnb #airbnbsuperhost #nashville #thehoteln...
thehotelnotcalifornia
14 likes • 284 views

🖼️ Art Crawl Hotspot

Visit during Nashville Art Crawls for special exhibitions and a vibrant atmosphere. Instagram

🤝 Welcoming Community

Visitors are welcomed with open hearts; no tickets or strict dress codes required. Reddit

Since 1997, Downtown Presbyterian Church in Nashville (@dpcnashville ) has hosted artist residencies in its unused upper floors, but now the building is at risk. The Hibbs Building is the newer of two structures at Downtown Presbyterian Church. Built in 1917, it stood unused for many years between 1960 and 1997, and the upper two floors went into decay. Now, over $1 million in repairs are neede...
kylepatton.png
71 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Sanctuary Tours

Look out for free sanctuary tours; they offer a fascinating glimpse into the church's history. TikTok

🎶 Candlelight Concerts

Experience magical candlelight concerts featuring classical music for a unique evening. Instagram

🖼️ Art Crawl Hotspot

Visit during Nashville Art Crawls for special exhibitions and a vibrant atmosphere. Instagram

🤝 Welcoming Community

Visitors are welcomed with open hearts; no tickets or strict dress codes required. Reddit

🍳 Saturday Breakfast

Enjoy a hearty breakfast and support community outreach every Saturday morning. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(108 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Downtown Presbyterian Church for its breathtaking Egyptian Revival architecture and rich historical significance, particularly its role as a Civil War hospital. The welcoming atmosphere and community outreach programs, like Saturday breakfasts, are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While parking can be a challenge in the downtown area, the overall experience is described as deeply rewarding and spiritually uplifting.

"Beautiful Palm Sunday service. We were visiting and felt welcomed the minute we stepped inside. The curing is so neat and they have a beautiful outreach program on Saturday.

Real special parishioners.

So happy to have shared church here.

No tickets needed. Just an open heart.
No dress code. Come one, come all."

kelli k

"The 95th Holiday Waffle Shop was today and it was awesome. Waffles with Nashville hot chicken were a favorite of course. Silent auction and a bake sale too. Looking forward to next year!

The church is so rich in history and the Egyptian Revival architecture is fascinating. A great church to visit on Sunday or during the Nashville art crawls."

Kathy Fox

"I LOVE this church. I got married in this beautifully historic sanctuary, and also was so blessed to use almost all of the building for my wedding portrait. Michael Arwood, the wedding coordinator, was amazing, as well as Dena Swoner, who helped us with the contracts, scheduling, and many other details. The people here are so very kind and welcoming. We would not have wanted anything more for our special day. We also love to come here for speakers and live music. I have met Nadia Bolz-Weber here, as well as some of the most eclectic underground jazz pianists and instrumentalists. Patty Griffin recorded her album 'Downtown Church' in the sanctuary. The acoustics are incredible there and in the chapel. Many other artists have recorded in this sacred space, but the Patty one is extra special because my husband and I claim one of the songs, 'Little Fire' as our song. When we got married, I was able to sing it right where Patty did. And that's just a few of the great things about this church...LOVE. (Photo credit David and Bradley Thomas)"

jennie frank

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Rich history
Welcoming atmosphere

What People Dislike

Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The church is centrally located in downtown Nashville at 5th Ave and Church Street. It's easily accessible by car, public transport, or even on foot if you're staying nearby. Parking can be challenging, so consider ride-sharing or public transit. Reddit

Parking can be limited and sometimes costly in downtown Nashville. While some street parking might be available, it's often metered or restricted. Nearby parking garages are a more reliable option, though be aware of potential ticketing if rules aren't strictly followed. Reddit

Yes, if you're exploring downtown Nashville, the church is within walking distance of many hotels, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. It's a great stop during a walking tour of the city. Reddit

From Nashville International Airport (BNA), you can take a taxi, rideshare service (Uber/Lyft), or a shuttle to downtown. The drive typically takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. TikTok

Nashville's public bus system, WeGo Public Transit, serves the downtown area. Check their routes and schedules for stops near the church. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No tickets are needed to visit for regular services or to explore the sanctuary during open hours. Visitors are welcomed with an open heart. Reddit

Visiting hours can vary, especially on weekdays. It's best to check their official website or call ahead. They are typically open for services on Sundays and may have specific hours for tours or events. TikTok

Tours are often offered for free, though donations are always appreciated to help maintain the historic building. Keep an eye out for 'Free Sanctuary Tour' signs or inquire about tour availability. TikTok

There is no strict dress code. Visitors are encouraged to come as they are, with an emphasis on an open heart rather than formal attire. Reddit

Absolutely! The church warmly welcomes visitors to attend their Sunday services. It's a great way to experience the community and the historic sanctuary. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The church is renowned for its striking Egyptian Revival architecture, a distinctive style rarely seen in the United States. Its grandeur and unique design make it a must-see. Reddit

The church has deep historical roots, notably serving as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the American Civil War. Its architecture and history are a significant part of Nashville's heritage. TikTok

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. They provide in-depth information about the church's history, architecture, and notable events. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, especially during tours or events. However, it's always polite to be discreet and respectful of ongoing services or private events. Instagram

The church hosts a variety of events, including art exhibitions, classical music concerts (like candlelight concerts), speakers, and community gatherings. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the church itself doesn't have a restaurant, it hosts special events like the Holiday Waffle Shop which offers unique food options. For regular dining, numerous restaurants are available in the surrounding downtown area. Reddit

Events like the Holiday Waffle Shop have featured popular items such as waffles with Nashville hot chicken, alongside bake sales and silent auctions. Reddit

Yes, the downtown area surrounding the church is packed with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets. Reddit

The church itself hosts a community breakfast on Saturday mornings, offering a great way to start the day. Many cafes and diners in the downtown area also serve breakfast. Reddit

The church offers its facilities for weddings and receptions, with staff like Michael Arwood and Dena Swoner assisting with coordination and details. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior, with its grand Egyptian Revival facade, is a prime photo opportunity. Inside, the sanctuary's soaring ceilings, intricate details, and stained glass windows offer stunning shots. Reddit

The church has been used for wedding portrait photoshoots, utilizing various parts of the building. It's advisable to contact the church administration to inquire about permissions and any associated fees for professional shoots. Reddit

While personal photography is generally allowed, it's important to be respectful of ongoing services, private events, or any specific signage. Avoid flash photography during services or concerts. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful for the exterior, while late afternoon can offer dramatic interior lighting through the windows. Check for any special lighting events like candlelight concerts for unique photographic opportunities. Instagram

Don't miss the towering columns, the grand organ, the detailed woodwork, and the unique hieroglyphic-inspired motifs characteristic of Egyptian Revival style. The acoustics are also noted as incredible. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Downtown Presbyterian Church will find a welcoming atmosphere and a rich historical experience. While there aren't specific children's play areas, the sheer grandeur of the Egyptian Revival architecture can captivate young imaginations. Tours, if available, can be adapted to be engaging for children, highlighting interesting historical facts or architectural details. TikTokReddit

Consider visiting during a Saturday morning community breakfast for a taste of local outreach, or check for any family-friendly events that might be scheduled. The church's central downtown location also makes it an easy addition to a family-friendly itinerary exploring other Nashville attractions.

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Downtown Presbyterian Church is a must-visit. Its Egyptian Revival design is a rare and impressive sight, offering a unique architectural study. Delve into its past as a Civil War hospital and learn about its role in Nashville's development. TikTokReddit

Seek out guided tours to gain deeper insights into the building's construction, historical context, and notable figures associated with it. The church's rich narrative provides a compelling experience for anyone interested in American history and architectural styles.

🎶 Music & Arts Lovers

The Downtown Presbyterian Church is a gem for music and arts enthusiasts. Its sanctuary boasts incredible acoustics, making it a sought-after venue for concerts, including classical performances like candlelight Vivaldi concerts. InstagramReddit

Keep an eye on their event schedule for art exhibitions, especially during Nashville's Art Crawls, and for any musical performances. The church's connection to artists like Patty Griffin, who recorded an album there, adds another layer of appeal for those interested in the intersection of sacred spaces and creative expression. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: The Civil War and Beyond

The Downtown Presbyterian Church holds a significant place in American history, particularly for its role during the Civil War. When Nashville was occupied by Union forces, the church was repurposed as a military hospital. Thousands of wounded soldiers were treated within its hallowed walls, a poignant chapter that underscores the building's enduring connection to the community and its resilience through times of conflict. This historical context adds a profound layer to any visit, inviting reflection on the past. TikTok

Beyond its wartime service, the church has been a cornerstone of downtown Nashville for decades. It has witnessed the city's growth and transformation, adapting to changing times while preserving its architectural and spiritual heritage. The church has also been a hub for artistic expression, with musicians like Patty Griffin recording albums in its sanctuary, drawn by its incredible acoustics. Reddit

Recent discussions have highlighted the building's ongoing needs, with some parts of the structure, like the Hibbs Building, requiring preservation efforts. This underscores the importance of community support and awareness in safeguarding such historic landmarks for future generations. Instagram

Architectural Marvel: Egyptian Revival Style

The Downtown Presbyterian Church is a stunning example of Egyptian Revival architecture, a style that was popular in the mid-19th century. Designed by William Strickland, the church's exterior features monumental scale, massive columns, and decorative motifs inspired by ancient Egyptian temples. This unique design sets it apart from many other religious buildings in the United States, making it a standout landmark in Nashville. Reddit

Inside, the grandeur continues with soaring ceilings and intricate detailing. The sanctuary is designed to inspire awe and reverence, with elements that reflect the stylistic choices of its era. The church's acoustics are also noteworthy, contributing to its reputation as a venue for high-quality musical performances. Reddit

Visitors often express amazement at the church's distinctive appearance, with many calling it Nashville's most beautiful church sanctuary. The blend of historical significance and unique architectural vision makes it a compelling destination for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Reddit

Community Hub: Events and Outreach

The Downtown Presbyterian Church is more than just a historic building; it's a vibrant community hub. It actively engages with the city through various outreach programs and events. A notable example is the Saturday morning community breakfast, which provides a warm meal and a welcoming atmosphere for those in need. This initiative highlights the church's commitment to serving the less fortunate in Nashville. Reddit

The church also serves as a popular venue for cultural events. It has hosted art exhibitions, such as installations during the Downtown Artwalk, and has been the backdrop for numerous musical performances, including classical candlelight concerts. The sanctuary's exceptional acoustics have attracted artists like Patty Griffin, who recorded her album 'Downtown Church' there, further cementing its role in the city's cultural landscape. InstagramReddit+1

Special events like the Holiday Waffle Shop showcase the church's community spirit, offering unique culinary experiences alongside silent auctions and bake sales. These events not only bring people together but also support the church's ongoing ministries and preservation efforts. Reddit

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