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Top Must-See Historical Landmarks in Phoenix
When you think of Phoenix,Arizona, your mind might gravitate towards its glorious desert landscapes or sweeping sunset views. Or, you might think about Phoenix’s luxurious resorts and electric metropolitan scene. But did you know that Phoenix has a rich and diverse history?
Even though Phoenix was established in 1912, the city is a treasure trove of history that belies its relatively recent recognition as a major metropolis. To prove this point, here are some of the highest-ranking historical landmarks you’ve got to see next time you’re in the Valley of the Sun.
Rosson House
If historic architecture is your passion, then you’ve got to add the Rosson House to your bucket list. Built in 1894 by Dr. Roland Lee Rosson, this Queen Anne-style home harkens back to the timeless Victorian era. Tucked in the heart of downtown Phoenix in Heritage Square, the Rosson House stands as a remarkable example of historic preservation and renovation. Designed by San Franciscan-born architect A.P. Petit, the home was built with the most modern amenities of the day, such as hot and cold running water and electric lights.
In 1974, the house underwent massive restorations executed with meticulous attention to detail to bring the home back to its original glory. From the attic insulation installation to resurrecting the decorative iron railings around the exterior – the Rosson House restoration has been a monumental triumph that truly established this house and museum into an impressive diamond in downtown Phoenix.
Pueblo Grande Museum
Long before Phoenix was named a city in the 20th century, Native Americans called it home. Visiting Pueblo Grande Museum is like taking a step back in time as it captures the vibrant history of the Hohokam people who lived, worked, and played in the area over 1500 years ago. The museum features artwork and ancient artifacts from the Hohokam and other indigenous people that have been stunningly preserved for centuries.
Operating since 1929, the museum continues to be a cultural landmark that consistently honors the heritage of the fascinating and varied people who roamed these beautiful desert lands from 500 AD to around 1450 AD.
Saint Mary’s Basilica
Founded in 1880, Saint Mary’s Basilica is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the city of Phoenix, and has been occupied by Franciscan Friars since 1895. Regardless of your religious affiliation, this Basilica is a must-see for its spectacular gothic-style stained glass windows and Mission-style domes spanning the length of the Basilica.
The architecture of the church is a dizzying mixture of Mission Revival and Romanesque styles, and the two bell towers are a nod to Bavarian and Austrian-style architecture. The interior, which was designed in quintessential Roman Catholic opulence, is truly dazzling. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1978, the church provides guided tours to the public – so don’t miss out on this epic marvel of design and historic architecture in Phoenix, Arizona.
Barrister Building
This mammoth landmark was built in 1915, and for a time, it was the tallest building in the entire state of Arizona. While it might have lost its status as the reigning tallest champion, the Barrister Building still has plenty to boast about. It was hailed for its lush rooftop gardens, and for its time, the Barrister was renowned for its cutting-edge modern amenities.
If you’re a movie buff, you might want to visit the Barrister Building for its legendary role in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 film, Psycho. Despite this, the building lost some of its luster until 2016, when a private developer poured over a million dollars into its renovation. Home to luxury condominiums now and renamed “Jefferson Place,” the Barrister Building might have a name change and a facelift, but the history and beauty of the original building still stands tall today.
The Last Word on Historic Landmarks in Phoenix, Arizona
Of course, the landmarks listed here are just a smattering of the intensely rich historical and cultural sites that can be seen all around the city of Phoenix. To be sure, the Valley of the Sun is virtually limitless in her generosity in sharing her legacies and heritage with both residents and tourists alike. So, whether you live in Phoenix or visiting on vacation – you owe it to yourself to visit these top historical landmarks.