From intricate mosaics to the stunning silhouette, when it comes to chapels in Minnesota, none can outshine the beautiful Lakewood Memorial Chapel. Lakewood Cemetery has been around since 1871, and holds many an architectural treasure. The chapel in particular, while modeled after the Hagia Sofia, certainly holds its own unique place in history.

Harry Wild Jones, a Minneapolis architect, designed the building, and New York designer Charles Lamb completed the interior.

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Six mosaic artists who had worked on the Vatican created the mosaic with more than 10 million pieces.

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When the chapel was completed in 1910, it was the only one in the country with an authentic mosaic interior. The 4 mosaic figures represent love, hope, faith and memory, and were based on paintings by Ella Condie Lamb.

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The chapel dome is 65 feel high and the beautiful stained-glass windows actually serve as a sundial.

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The stunning chapel is one of the most amazing examples of Byzantine mosaic art in the US.

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In 1996, the chapel was renovated and restored by architect architect Jim W. Miller, AIA. Any visit to the chapel is a wonderful experience, and while you’re at the cemetery, be sure to check out some of the other architectural marvels.

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What other Minnesota buildings do you love?

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