The Monticello Utah Temple stands as the 53rd dedicated temple in the world, a beautiful testament to faith in the heart of Utah. Located at 365 N 200 W in Monticello, this stunning temple is built on 1.33 acres, featuring a gleaming exterior of Turkish off-white marble.
Its architectural highlight is a single spire, proudly capped with a gold leaf statue of the angel Moroni. Originally white, it was transformed after a lightning strike, symbolizing resilience and renewal through its radiant gold replacement.
This remarkable journey began on October 4, 1997, with its announcement, followed by a significant groundbreaking ceremony on November 17. The temple was astonishingly constructed in just eight months, a remarkable achievement for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The public was invited to explore this sacred space during an open house from July 16 to 18, 1998, leading up to its dedication on July 26 and 27 by the beloved Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley.
Continuing its legacy, the Monticello Utah Temple opened its doors for another public open house from November 2 to 9, 2002, culminating in a rededication on November 17, again led by Hinckley. Inside its 11,225 square feet of sacred space, visitors can find two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistery, each designed to uplift spirits and nurture faith.
Elevated at 7,098 feet, the temple gracefully rises 66 feet into the sky, harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding landscape. It shares a parking lot with a local meeting house, emphasizing its role as a place of belonging and connection.
Envisioned by the late Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley as a smaller yet significant house of worship, the Monticello Utah Temple is more than just a building; it stands as a vibrant symbol of faith and community, uniting people from all walks of life. Its remarkable history and meaningful presence make it a cherished landmark and spiritual cornerstone in the region.