Discovering Alexandria, LA: Exploring Its Sacred and Spiritual Places

Alexandria, Louisiana is a city thats steeped in history and culture. The rich spiritual life of the people who live there is visible not just in their churches but also in the public spaces theyve created. Visitors to this vibrant southern community will be struck by how deeply faith is woven into the fabric of everyday life.

One mustvisit site for those interested in religious exploration is St. Francis Xavier Cathedral (626 Fourth Street). With its towering spires and elegant interior, this cathedral speaks to the beauty of Catholicism as practiced in Louisiana over centuries.

Another essential stop on any pilgrimage through Alexandria is Mount Olivet Chapel (727 Van Buren Street). This small chapel was built by enslaved Africans back when it was considered taboo for them to practice their religion openly. Today, it functions as a museum showcasing historic artifacts from African American church communities throughout central Louisiana.

For a truly unique experience, visit Ouachita Baptist Church (229 Jackson Street), which boasts an impressive collection of rare Bibles dating back hundreds or even thousands of years! Examine ancient texts written across papyrus leaves at close range!

Finally, visitors shouldnt miss out on Jungle Gardens Tabernacle(6807 Bayou Rapides Road). Just outside town lies this hidden gem where you can see columns beautifully crafted with mosaics depicting tales from Genesis alongside murals showing scenes from Revelations .

While these sites are wellknown landmarks drawing travelers far and wide , one should also take time to investigate lesser known locations suchs as Grace Presbyterian Church(519 Versailles Boulevard) famous for its sprawling labyrinth located behind the building; Murray Cemetery off Highway 28 East has been rumored haunted while still offering serene gracefilled place overlooking beautiful fields.

Lastly travel south down Highway 1 South en route to familyowned Buena Vista Memorial Parkwhich holds graves of General Robert E. Lees family members; as well as a monument to Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War .

In short, Alexandria is home to an amazing array of sacred and spiritual places that reflect the soulful nature of its people. Whether youre seeking out historical or contemporary religious expressions, this charming Louisiana town has everything any explorer could wish for.

List of websites and Twitter names:

St. Francis Xavier Cathedral: www.sfxball.com

Mount Olivet Chapel: https://www.crt.la.gov/louisianastateparks/historicsites/mountolivetchapel/index

Ouachita Baptist Church: https://obcla.org/

Jungle Gardens Tabernacle : https://junglegardens.net/tabernacle.php

Grace Presbyterian Church: http://gracepresalex.org/

Buena Vista Memorial Park Cemetery :https://buenavistacemetery.com/