The Monticello Utah Temple is a wonderful gem in the heart of Utah, proudly serving as the 53rd dedicated temple in operation. You can find it at 365 N 200 W in Monticello, nestled on a lovely 1.33 acres of land. The exterior is beautifully crafted from Turkish off-white marble, giving it a warm and inviting glow.
One of the temple’s most charming features is its single attached spire, topped with a striking gold leaf statue of the angel Moroni. The original statue was white, but after a memorable lightning strike, it was replaced with the stunning gold version we see today, adding a touch of brilliance to the skyline.
The story of this special place began on October 4, 1997, when it was announced. The groundbreaking took place shortly after, on November 17, with Ben B. Banks leading the ceremony. After just eight months of hard work and dedication—the fastest in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—this beautiful temple opened its doors for a public open house from July 16 to 18, 1998. Soon after, on July 26 and 27 of that year, it was dedicated by the beloved Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley.
In 2002, the temple welcomed visitors again with another open house from November 2 to 9, followed by a rededication on November 17, also by Hinckley. Inside, the temple offers a cozy atmosphere with two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistery, all within its spacious 11,225 square feet.
Standing at 7,098 feet in elevation, the Monticello Utah Temple reaches 66 feet into the sky, beautifully complementing its beautiful surroundings. It even shares a parking lot with a nearby meeting house, reflecting its role as a communal hub for worship and fellowship.
Originally envisioned by the late Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley as a smaller yet meaningful place of worship, the Monticello Utah Temple is Utah’s 11th temple, making it a cherished spot for many. It’s more than just a lovely building; it’s a welcoming sanctuary that brings people together in faith and community, and its remarkable history adds to its charm.