You might expect to see old Catholic missions in states like California and Texas. But if you’re familiar with St. Ignatius, you know we’ve got one here that could compete with all the others for the title of Most Beautiful. Every Montanan should see the St. Ignatius Mission at least once.

The St. Ignatius Mission is located in the tiny town of Saint Ignatius, about 42 miles north of Missoula.
Michael Umphrey / Flickr
The mission was founded in 1854 by Father Pierre-Jean De Smet and Father Adrian Hoecken.
rreihm / Flickr
The current structure that still stands today was built between 1891 and 1893.
This magnificent mission is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
SheltieBoy / Flickr
All it takes is one glimpse to see why. The art and architecture here are spectacular.

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The church is located on the Flathead Indian Reservation, and there are two paintings of the Salish Lord and Lord's mother in Native American form.
2395Deb / TripAdvisor
The paintings are located in the back of the mission.
The Mission is open daily for tourists or for anyone who'd like to worship privately.
RBeresh / TripAdvisor
The hours vary based on the season. There's also a gift shop next door that sells artifacts and religious items.
As you're leaving, don't forget to get a good look at the Mission Range, which makes the most perfect backdrop for the mission.
Ken Lund / Flickr
They couldn't have picked a more picturesque setting for the church.

 

The St. Ignatius Mission is truly stunning. And if you love exploring beautiful churches, check out Holy Trinity in Butte.

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