Exploring the Cardston Alberta Temple: A Historic Canadian Landmark

Posted on June 4, 2025 by Westwind Weekly

Canada’s diversity shines in its architecture, cultural landmarks, and history, and one remarkable example of this is the Cardston Alberta Temple.

What is the Cardston Alberta Temple?

The Cardston Alberta Temple is a sacred site of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Dedicated in 1923, it was the church’s first temple in Canada and the first constructed outside of the United States. For the LDS community in Canada, it holds deep religious significance, blending faith and heritage in every corner.

How Does It Factor Into Alberta’s History?

The temple has a rich history closely tied to the early settler communities in Alberta. Cardston was founded by members of the LDS Church in 1887, many of whom had emigrated from Utah searching for fertile land and religious freedom.

The construction of the Cardston Alberta Temple marked a turning point for this community. It symbolized their long-term commitment to building a spiritual home in Alberta. The temple was also a demonstration of the economic and social development of the time, showcasing the skills, resources, and cooperative spirit of the early settlers.

The temple’s architectural style reflected a shift from traditional American designs to something that resonated uniquely with the Canadian landscape and culture. This fusion of faith and regional aesthetics created a structure that became an icon not just for the LDS Church, but for Alberta’s heritage as well.

Interesting Facts About the Cardston Alberta Temple

The Cardston Alberta Temple is full of fascinating details that add to its allure!

• Unique Architecture: Unlike LDS temples constructed before it, which often showcased spires or steeples, the Cardston Temple was designed in a Prairie style. The building’s horizontal lines, geometric shapes, and subtle curves were created to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

• Artisan Work: Inside the temple is breathtaking craftsmanship, including mural paintings, stained-glass windows, and hand-carved woodwork. These details reflect the deep faith of the artists and the community that brought the temple to life.

• International Recognition: The temple gained recognition for its unique design and construction. It remains an architectural marvel nearly a century later.

• Historic Milestone: The Cardston Alberta Temple was the first LDS temple constructed outside the United States. Its completion symbolized the global expansion of the LDS Church and its firm establishment in Canada.

Can You Go Inside the Temple?

Access to the Cardston Alberta Temple depends on your connection to the LDS Church. Like all LDS temples, it is open only to church members who hold a recommend, which is a form of permission granted by church leadership. This ensures the sacred nature of the rituals performed within its walls.

However, non-members and visitors aren’t entirely excluded from experiencing its beauty and significance. The exterior still offers plenty to admire. The landscaped grounds surrounding the temple are open to the public and provide a tranquil setting for reflection and appreciation of the building’s grandeur.

Why Visit the Cardston Alberta Temple?

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone seeking inspiration, the Cardston Alberta Temple is a unique destination. Its role in Alberta’s history, combined with its architectural elegance and spiritual significance, makes it one of Canada’s hidden gems. Your visit to the temple can also be paired with other activities. Explore the surrounding countryside, enjoy the cultural highlights of the town, or make a day trip to nearby scenic Waterton Lakes National Park.

The Cardston Alberta Temple is an architectural wonder and a reflection of Alberta’s rich, diverse heritage. Whether you can step inside its sacred walls or simply admire its beauty from the outside, this temple is a living monument to the intersection of spirituality and history in Canada. Make sure to add it to your list of must-see destinations in Alberta.

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Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Alberta Newspaper Group. This story was written for the Alberta Newspaper Groups  Summer Escapes Guide advertising feature. Summer Escapes is a special feature about things to do in Alberta this summer. Activities like, staycations, road trips, camping, and other adventures including local attractions, events and  food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.