Sacred Heart Catholic Church: A Downtown Tampa Landmark

Discover Tampa's architectural gem, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, a Romanesque Revival masterpiece with stunning stained glass and a rich history in the heart of downtown.

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Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Sacred Heart Catholic Church, a beacon of faith and architectural beauty, stands proudly in the heart of downtown Tampa. Constructed in 1905, it is one of the city's oldest churches and a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture. The church's granite and marble exterior, topped with a 135-foot dome, makes it a striking landmark. Inside, visitors are greeted by soaring arches, intricate stained-glass windows crafted in Munich, and a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection. More than just a place of worship, Sacred Heart has served as a community cornerstone, hosting countless ceremonies and events, and continues to be a popular venue for weddings, with some families celebrating generations of unions within its walls. Its location near the Tampa Riverwalk and other downtown attractions makes it an easily accessible and worthwhile stop for any visitor seeking a glimpse into Tampa's rich history and spiritual heritage. The church welcomes people of all faiths to admire its beauty and find a moment of peace.

A brief summary to Sacred Heart Catholic Church

509 N Florida Ave, Tampa, Downtown, Florida, 33602, US
+1813-229-1595
Visit website

Monday 7 am-3 pm
Tuesday 7 am-3 pm
Wednesday 7 am-3 pm
Thursday 7 am-3 pm
Friday 7 am-3 pm
Saturday 4 pm-6:30 pm
Sunday 7:30 am-1:30 pm

Local tips

Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the church's history and architectural details, especially during the holiday season for a unique experience.
Attend a Mass to experience the church's spiritual atmosphere and hear the grand pipe organ in action.
Visit during daylight hours to best admire the stained-glass windows and their vibrant colors.
Check the church's website for the most up-to-date information on Mass times, events, and tour schedules.
Combine your visit with a stroll along the nearby Tampa Riverwalk and explore other downtown attractions.

Getting There

Walking

From the Tampa Riverwalk or nearby downtown hotels, Sacred Heart Catholic Church is easily accessible on foot. Head north on Florida Avenue. The church is located at 509 N Florida Ave, between Twiggs Street and Cass Street. Look for the impressive granite and marble facade and the prominent dome. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

The Marion Transit Center, a major hub for the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART), is located a few blocks from Sacred Heart Catholic Church. From the transit center, walk north on Florida Avenue to reach the church. A single ride on HART costs $2.00.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout downtown Tampa. Request a ride to 509 N Florida Ave. The cost for a short ride within downtown Tampa typically ranges from $6 to $12, depending on distance and demand.
Driving

If driving, navigate to 509 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602. Parking near the church can be challenging, especially during weekdays. Street parking is available, but metered spaces are enforced Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday 2 p.m. to midnight. There is free on-street parking available to parishioners within the City of Tampa's “church zone” metered spaces for Sunday Masses. The zone is typically “north of E. Kennedy Blvd. and south of E. Cass St., east of N. Franklin St. and west of N. Morgan St.” Several parking garages are also located within walking distance, including the Madison Building Garage next door to the church. The Madison Building Garage offers a discounted daily rate of $3.00 for the first hour, and $2.00 for any subsequent hours for parishioners attending Mass. Failure to collect a ticket or validation will require those parking in the garage to pay the posted weekend rate of $20.00 per day. Other nearby garages charge hourly rates ranging from $8 to $12.

Discover more about Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Sacred Heart Catholic Church, located in the bustling heart of downtown Tampa, is more than just a religious building; it's a testament to the city's history, architectural prowess, and enduring faith. Completed in 1905, this Romanesque Revival masterpiece has stood as a silent witness to Tampa's evolution, offering solace and inspiration to generations of residents and visitors alike. The story of Sacred Heart begins long before its current structure. In the mid-19th century, a small Catholic community established St. Louis Parish, erecting a modest wooden-frame church on the very site where Sacred Heart now stands. As Tampa flourished with the arrival of the railroad and the burgeoning cigar industry in Ybor City, the need for a larger, more permanent church became apparent. In 1897, the decision was made to construct a grand edifice that would reflect the city's growing prominence. The task of designing this architectural gem fell to Nicholas J. Clayton, a renowned architect from Galveston, Texas, known for his expertise in Roman Catholic church design. Clayton envisioned a Romanesque Revival structure, characterized by its rounded arches, massive walls, and overall sense of grandeur. Construction began in 1898, and after years of dedicated craftsmanship, Sacred Heart Catholic Church was dedicated on January 15, 1905. The exterior of Sacred Heart is a sight to behold. The combination of granite and white marble creates a striking contrast, while the 135-foot dome commands attention, piercing the Tampa skyline. The meticulous detailing and imposing scale of the building speak to the ambition and artistry of its creators. Restoration efforts continue to preserve the intricate details and historical integrity of this venerable edifice, ensuring it continues to inspire awe and devotion for generations to come. Stepping inside Sacred Heart is like entering a different world. The soaring ceilings, supported by massive granite arches, create a sense of spaciousness and reverence. Light streams through the 70 stained-glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the interior. These windows, designed and manufactured by Franz Mayer & Co. of Munich, Germany, are not merely decorative; they are works of art that depict biblical scenes and stories, adding depth and meaning to the worship experience. The Resurrection Window on the left side of the transept is a triptych, with three panels. The center panel presents the risen Christ, triumphant over death. He floats over the tomb, carrying a heavenly banner, his right hand raised in a benediction. An angel alights beneath him, gazing at the stunned soldiers who guarded his tomb. The interior also features solid oak pews and doors, porcelain tiles, and a Carrara marble altar, all contributing to the church's overall sense of elegance and permanence. The grand pipe organ resonates with rich, melodious tones during services, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere. Over the years, Sacred Heart has played a vital role in the Tampa community. It has served as a place of worship, a center for social gatherings, and a venue for countless weddings, baptisms, and other significant life events. The church's commitment to education is also noteworthy. Jesuit High School, a prominent Tampa institution, had its humble beginnings in the sacristy of Sacred Heart in 1899. Today, Sacred Heart Catholic Church remains an active and vibrant parish, welcoming people of all backgrounds to experience its beauty and participate in its spiritual offerings. The church is under the care of the Franciscan Order, who took over the church in 2005. Visitors can attend Mass, explore the architecture, or simply find a quiet space for contemplation. The church also offers historical tours, led by period-costumed volunteer docents during the holiday season, providing a glimpse into its rich past. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, Sacred Heart is easily accessible to visitors. It's within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants, and attractions, including the Tampa Riverwalk, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the Florida Aquarium. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a moment of peace, Sacred Heart Catholic Church is a must-see destination in Tampa.

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Sacred Heart Catholic Church: A Downtown Tampa Landmark

A brief summary to Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Great Escape Room Tampa

The Vault

Weather clock

Tampa Historic Preservation

Tampa, FL - Downtown West

S.H. Kress & Co.

Visit Tampa Bay

William F. Poe Plaza

Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center

Kiley Gardens

Oaklawn Cemetery

Jackson Rooming House

Tampa's Black History Museum

Carol Morsani Hall

John Lennon Statue

Unmissable attractions to see

Joe Chillura Courthouse Square

Tampa Theatre

Lykes Gaslight Square Park

Iconic Tampa Bay

Tampa Firefighters Museum

Glazer Children's Museum

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Tampa Riverwalk

MacDill Park on the Riverwalk

Tampa Riverwalk at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Tampa Postcard Mural

Tampa Museum of Art

Perry Harvey Sr. Park

Straz Center for the Performing Arts

Old Steel Railroad Bridge

Essential places to dine

Sal Rosa

Dio Modern Mediterranean

Spain Restaurant and Toma Bar

The Dan

Malio's

Melting Pot Social

EBBE

Maestro's Restaurant

Chanta

Yard House

TASTE Downtown Tampa

Predalina

wagamama

Lilac

Market at EDITION

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Sacred Heart Gift & Book Store

Solle Boutique

Tarvos Boutique

Sincerely Shandrel

Holiday Gift Promotions, LLC

Soleciety Sneaker Boutique

Lobby Gifts N More

Museum Store

Tidewater Home & Gift

Tampa Bay Sports Store

Don Me Now

Joyful Notion

Channelside Bay Plaza

Picker Place Market

The Spring Boutique

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

511 Franklin

CW's Gin Joint