Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church Is A Pretty Place Of Worship In Montana

If you had to make a guess on the oldest operating church in Montana, what would come to mind? You might be surprised to learn that it's a Serbian Orthodox church in Butte. Holy Trinity Church is almost as old as the state itself, and it's absolutely gorgeous inside.

Holy Trinity Church was established between 1897 and 1905.

Butte was once home to a large population of Serbian immigrants, and they built the second Serbian Orthodox church in North America.

But in the 1950s, shallow underground operations of the nearby mines had damaged the church.

Then, in 1959, the massive Hebgen Lake earthquake caused further damage. The church was razed in 1964, and the new building was constructed the following year.

The building's architecture is modern yet traditional, with several large onion domes that are visible from the interstate.

Even from the outside, this church is certainly eye-catching.

While the architecture is what catches people's attention immediately, it's the sanctuary that is absolutely breathtaking.

Stunning art covers every single inch of it, and it's incredible to look at.

The art, known as the Frescoe Project, is meant to depict the major Feast Days of salvation history.

Six iconographers from Belgrade, Serbia spent a whopping 14 months on the artwork, which was completed between 2003 and 2006. Iconographers are considered to be holy people and are not allowed personal expression in their artwork.

Today, Holy Trinity Church is a multi-ethnic parish and welcomes everyone to worship services.

They have services at 10 a.m. on Sunday mornings, and you're also welcome to schedule a private tour.

Did you know this gorgeous place of worship existed right here in Montana? Learn more about the church's mission, services, and history -- or better yet, schedule a tour -- on the church's website.