An iconic temple central to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faith will close for four years to complete a major renovation. Officials say they are keeping a careful eye on construction plans after a devastating fire this week at Notre Dame cathedral in Paris.
Church President Russell M. Nelson said Friday the Salt Lake Temple will close Dec. 29 to update the building, help it withstand earthquakes and create a more welcoming visitor environment.
The stately granite temple is open only to church members for marriages and other ceremonies, but the building and surrounding square are among the state's top tourist destinations.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Russell M. Nelson departs after a news conference at the Temple Square South Visitors Center Friday, April 19, 2019, in Salt Lake City. An iconic temple central to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faith will close for four years to complete a major renovation, and officials are keeping a careful eye on construction plans after a devastating fire at Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. Nelson said the closure will begin in December. (AP PhotoRick Bowmer)
When the temple re-opens in 2024, a brief open house will give outsiders their first glimpse of the interior in more than a century.
Salt Lake Temple is shown Friday, April 19, 2019, in Salt Lake City. The iconic temple central to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faith will close for four years to complete a major renovation, and officials are keeping a careful eye on construction plans after a devastating fire at Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. Church President Russell M. Nelson said Friday the closure will begin in December. (AP PhotoRick Bowmer)
In this Thursday, April 18, 2019, photo, shows the Salt Lake Temple, in Salt Lake City. An iconic temple central to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faith will close for four years to complete a major renovation, and officials are keeping a careful eye on construction plans after a devastating fire at Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. (AP PhotoRick Bowmer)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Russell M. Nelson, center, walks with his counselors, Dallin H. Oaks, left, and Henry B. Eyring, right, as they arrive for a news conference at the Temple Square South Visitors Center Friday, April 19, 2019, in Salt Lake City. An iconic temple central to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faith will close for four years to complete a major renovation, and officials are keeping a careful eye on construction plans after a devastating fire at Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. Nelson said the closure will begin in December. (AP PhotoRick Bowmer)