Why Do Old Places Matter Acoma Sky City, San Esteban del Rey Mission Church
March 30, 2020

Sacred Places: A Virtual Tour Through Four National Trust Historic Sites

National Trust Historic Sites are open! We encourage you to check directly with each site for up-to-date information on available activities, ticketing, and guidelines if you are planning a visit.

Plan Your Visit

In this, the first of a seven-part “virtual tour” of our historic sites, I’ll be taking you on a journey to the sacred and religious sites among the portfolio—four places that represent the history of southwestern Pueblos (Acoma Sky City), post-colonial-era Black Americans (two sites of the Museum of African American History), and early Jewish residents of Newport, Rhode Island (Touro Synagogue).

As a nation, our defining characteristics include religious tolerance, and at a time when people are shut out from their houses of worship, instead streaming religious ceremonies online, we hope this virtual tour is a reminder not only that we live in a country with rich history and diverse faiths, but that we share collective values.

Check out the rest of our virtual tours of National Trust Historic Sites, exploring places related to Commerce and Industry, Garden Glory, Architectural Traditions, Presidential Retreats, Modernism, and Southern History.

Looking for an opportunity to take direct action on behalf of a sacred place? The National Fund for Sacred Places, a program of Partners for Sacred Places in collaboration with the National Trust, helps ensure that America’s sacred spaces continue to serve their communities’ materials and spiritual needs. This mission becomes even more significant during crises like the one we currently face. If you know of a congregation in need of support, learn more and apply for a chance to help the community steward its house of worship.


Donate Today to Help Save the Places Where Our History Happened.

Donate to the National Trust for Historic Preservation today and you'll help preserve places that tell our stories, reflect our culture, and shape our shared American experience.

Dennis Hockman

Dennis Hockman is editor in chief of Preservation magazine. He’s lived in historic apartments and houses all over the United States and knows that all old buildings have stories to tell if you care to find them.

Looking for a meaningful way to support the historic local eateries you love? Nominate your favorite spots for a Backing Historic Small Restaurants grant.

Learn More