Strikingly similar to medieval Europe, the Plymouth Congregational
Church lies nearby the fashionable shops and eateries of Coconut
Grove. As there was only a mall wooden chapel serving Coconut
Grove, it was decided to build another, bigger one, and construction
began in 1916 and was completed the following year. Amazingly,
the beautiful and detailed stonework of the chapel was all carried
out by a single Spanish stone mason who possessed nothing more
than a T-square, hatchet, trowel and plumb-line. Some of the
features in the church, including the wrought-iron fittings on
the oak-backed walnut door at the entrance, date back nearly
four centuries. As the affluent population of Coconut Grove grew,
so too did the congregation of the church and the generous donations.
In 1954 the shape of the church was altered into a cross by adding
a new chancel and two transepts. The surrounding grounds are
fitting for such a beautiful piece of architecture and include
a Memorial Garden.
The opening hours of the church vary, but if you phone in advance,
it can be arranged for it to be unlocked. For a peaceful and relaxing
break from hectic schedules, this makes an ideal change.
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