Exploring the Las Vegas Nevada Temple
The Las Vegas Nevada Temple stands as the 43rd dedicated Temple, set against the backdrop of the city known as the City of Lights. Located at 827 Temple View Dr, Las Vegas, Nevada 89110, this site is a tranquil presence, distinctly separate from the vibrant energy of the Las Vegas Strip.
LDS Temple News Presents the Las Vegas Nevada Temple
Announced to the public on April 7, 1984, by the Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley, the Las Vegas Nevada Temple began its journey toward completion. The groundbreaking took place on November 30, 1985, under the leadership of Apostle Thomas S. Monson. Significant public interest was shown during the open house, which ran from November 16 to December 9, 1989, attracting 297,480 attendees.
The dedication occurred soon after, spanning December 16 to December 18, 1989, also led by Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley, who remarked, “This is a holy house of God.”
Architectural Features
The Las Vegas Nevada Temple is built on 10.3 acres and features a striking exterior of white precast stone walls accented by a copper roof. The six attached spires are topped with the angel Moroni statue, facing east and symbolically heralding the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
Dimensions and Design
- The Temple covers 80,350 square feet and reaches a height of 137 feet, situated at an elevation of 1,946 feet.
- It comprises three levels and includes four instruction rooms, six sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
Artistic Elements
The Temple’s exterior is adorned with art glass that features intricate geometric, Art Deco-inspired patterns, creating a harmonious aesthetic with the surrounding desert landscape. Inside, prominent desert-scape murals and striking stained-glass windows enhance the atmosphere.
The interior showcases custom brass and frosted-glass chandeliers designed by Preciosa, especially in the Celestial Room, which features two massive chandeliers made from thousands of pieces of cut crystal. Natural light floods through floor-to-ceiling windows in this room, casting miniature rainbows that dance along the walls.
Community Support
With the announcement of the Temple, members from the temple district were invited to contribute towards its construction, and they responded enthusiastically, raising $11 million—428 percent of their assessment. This strong community support highlights the significance of the Temple to its members.
The groundbreaking drew over six thousand attendees at the Las Vegas Convention Center, featuring a presentation with Church leaders turning the earth during the ceremony.
Recent Developments
In 2012, a family history center opened on the grounds, previously home to the Distribution Services center, expanding the Temple’s role in supporting individuals and families.
The Las Vegas Nevada Temple remains a remarkable space in the heart of Nevada, uniting beautiful architecture with meaningful experiences for its members, marking it as the first Temple in Clark County and the state of Nevada.