The temple that took 40 years to build is the Salt Lake Temple.
The Enduring Legacy of the Salt Lake Temple
Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, the Salt Lake Temple stands as a monumental achievement in architecture and dedication. Its construction spanned four decades, a testament to the perseverance and vision of its builders.
Construction Timeline and Key Facts
Construction on the Salt Lake Temple began on April 6, 1853, with its dedication taking place on April 6, 1893—exactly 40 years later. This extensive period allowed for meticulous craftsmanship and the integration of robust building techniques designed to ensure the temple's longevity.
Here are some notable details regarding its construction:
- Overall Construction Period: The entire temple project, from groundbreaking to dedication, lasted 40 years.
- Interior Completion: Despite the long overall timeline, its highly ornate interior was completed with remarkable speed, taking just one year to finish. This highlights the focused effort applied to the intricate details of the temple's inner sanctum.
- Architectural Robustness: The temple's structure was built to endure. The walls of the Salt Lake Temple are remarkably thick, measuring nine feet at the base and gradually tapering to six feet thick at the top. This substantial construction contributes to its formidable and lasting presence.
The temple's construction faced numerous challenges, including the need to transport materials over vast distances and the use of primarily manual labor, which further emphasizes the scale of this 40-year undertaking. Today, the Salt Lake Temple remains a globally recognized landmark and a symbol of faith and endurance.
For more information about the Salt Lake Temple, you can visit ChurchofJesusChristTemples.org.
