St. Paul's Chapel, New York City

St. Paul's Chapel, a serene sanctuary amidst the bustle of New York City, holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving church building in Manhattan. Located at 209 Broadway, between Fulton Street and Vesey Street, this chapel is an integral part of the historic landscape of New York City.

Constructed in 1766, St. Paul's Chapel is an enduring example of Georgian Classic-Revival architecture. Despite its age, the chapel has never undergone a significant renovation, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience a piece of the city's colonial past. Its storied history includes serving as a place of worship for George Washington on Inauguration Day in 1789 and surviving the Great New York City Fire of 1776, which ravaged much of the city.

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, St. Paul's Chapel gained renewed significance as a sanctuary for recovery workers. For eight months, the chapel's doors remained open to firefighters, construction workers, and other personnel, offering respite and support during the recovery efforts at the nearby World Trade Center site.

Today, visitors to St. Paul's Chapel can explore its rich history through its various memorials and exhibits, including the 9/11 Memorial, which pays tribute to the events and the chapel's role during the crisis. The chapel's interior is adorned with opulent chandeliers and colonial-era adornments, which contrast with its simple exterior. It is an active Episcopal chapel, offering services and prayers for those who seek spiritual solace.