Christ Chapel: A Historical Landmark
Built in 1866 and cherished as a treasured historical landmark, Christ Chapel holds a special place in the hearts of both the National and City of Boise Registries of Historic Places. Preserved and lovingly restored by the Christ Chapel Historical Society, this remarkable chapel showcases stunning stained glass windows and architectural features from the 1860s and 1870s. Nestled in the heart of the Boise State campus, Christ Chapel provides an intimate and enchanting setting for your wedding, religious ceremony, or lecture.
Step into a bygone era as you enter Christ Chapel, where history intertwines with elegance. The chapel’s rich heritage is a testament to the craftsmanship and architectural brilliance of the past. The beautifully preserved stained glass windows illuminate the space with a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere. The architectural details from the 1860s and 1870s add a touch of grandeur and timeless charm to this sacred venue.
Details
Rates
Rental Rate: $800.00 includes three (3) hours on the day of the ceremony/event *Please note taxes to apply.
*Rental cost also includes the lawn area outside the chapel, which can be used for outdoor receptions.
Additional Hours $150.00
Rental charges must be paid in full at the time of booking to secure your event date.
Parking
We are committed to providing each client with the most convenient parking for your guests. Parking arrangements are required and will be made through your Event Coordinator during the event planning process.
Hosted Event Parking
The reserving party may choose to pay for parking for their guests at the Event Parking Rate $5 per car (Subject to change). Â To enjoy parking privileges, guests will display a dashboard permit in their car. Â This permit is emailed to the reserving party prior to the event date and can be shared with guests in advance, or made available as guests arrive on-site for your event.
Parking Availability
Parking availability may be impacted by other events taking place on campus at the same time. Â Please consult with your Event Coordinator for the best parking plan.
Seating
Christ Chapel holds approximately 100 people in original wooden pew seating.
Accessibility
Christ Chapel is a historic building and does not include a ramped entrance for guests in wheelchairs or with limited mobility to independently access the facility. There are 5 steps leading up to the main entrance.
Virtual Tour
History
Christ Chapel, originally known as St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, has a rich history dating back to 1866. The church was initially located at 7th and Bannock streets, where Reverend St. Michael Fackler held the first services. After his passing, the congregation renamed the church St. Michael’s in his honor.
Over the years, the building served as both a church and a schoolhouse for St. Margaret’s School, which later became Boise Junior College and eventually Boise State University. In 1963, the Christ Chapel Historical Society was established to restore and relocate the chapel to the university campus. It found its new home at 1010 Cesar Chavez Lane near Broadway Avenue.
The Gothic Revival-style building, constructed in 1866, holds historical significance as Idaho’s first Protestant church. It witnessed many religious events during the state’s early years. In 1902, the church was renamed Christ Chapel and relocated to 15th and Ridenbaugh. It continued to be a place of Episcopal worship until the early 1960s.
The Christ Chapel Historical Society played a vital role in preserving the chapel’s legacy. In 1964, the Episcopal Diocese officially transferred ownership of Christ Chapel to the society, making it a nondenominational church open to the community for weddings, memorial services, and religious ceremonies. The chapel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
Today, Christ Chapel stands as a testament to the dedication and efforts of the Historical Society, serving as a cherished venue for weddings and maintaining its historical significance.