Northern California is home to all sorts of one-of-a-kind architectural wonders, especially when it comes to places of worship. From grandiose cathedrals to humble little chapels, we’ve got them all. However, the structure featured here may just be the smallest church in the entire world. Once you see it, you’ll probably agree! This place is teeny tiny, but it’s huge on history and charm. It’s definitely worthy of a visit the next time you find yourself in the area. Take a look:
You'll find the tiniest church in the world hiding out near the unincorporated community of Sycamore, located just south of Colusa. This little shrine isn't just the smallest church you've ever seen, but one of the smallest buildings you've ever seen—period.
The Grand Island Shrine is the definition of a hidden gem. Located just off of State Route 45, it's an unexpected sight on the side of the road and you definitely won't be able to resist getting out of your car and checking it out.
It seems that the only thing that has changed since the shrine was originally built in 1883 are the church's surroundings. The delightful shrine was designed and built by Father Michael Wallrath. The cross came first and the altar was built after Father Wallrath decided the cross needed something "more" to preserve its identity.
The church itself is just 10 feet by 14 feet but that hasn't stopped people from attending mass and pilgrimages here since the shrine was erected. The Grand Island Shrine was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and was described as "a unique example of vernacular or folk architecture".
The tiny little building contains only a small altar dedicated to "Our Lady of Sorrows". Back in the day, mass was said whenever a priest was available. The congregation would sit in the open while the priest celebrated mass in the shrine. Afterwards, the congregation would enjoy a picnic together.
The doors to the church remain unlocked to this day, welcoming anyone and everyone who wishes to stop by to pray or simply check out the strange Gothic structure located just 100 yards from the highway. In fact, the church still celebrates the Eucharist on the last Sunday in April and Thanksgiving Day every year.
This is the type of delightful oddity that reminds us of how amazing it is to live in a region with so much fascinating history. Be sure to stop at the tiniest church in the world the next time you're traveling along State Route 45. Click here to be taken to its exact coordinates on GoogleMaps.
What do you think? This is definitely the smallest church we’ve ever seen and we are absolutely in love with it. Our state is full of wonderfully unique churches. Be sure to take a look at this Chapel In Northern California That’s Located In The Most Unforgettable Setting—this place definitely doesn’t look like your typical chapel.
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