The church was designed by architect Thomas Franklin Power, who drew inspiration from the Churrigueresque style of 18th-century Spanish colonial cathedrals.
The interior contains over 100 stained glass windows produced by the Franz Mayer & Co. firm in Munich.
The high altar is constructed from varied types of imported Italian and African marble.
Edward L. Doheny, the benefactor who funded the construction, is buried within a crypt inside the church.
The church dome stands approximately 160 feet high, making it a visible landmark from various parts of the surrounding neighborhood.
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church is a Spanish Churrigueresque-style cathedral built in 1925, funded by oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny and his wife Carrie Estelle Doheny. The church is famous for its intricate terra cotta facade and extensive use of elaborate stone carvings. Its interior features a massive dome and stained glass windows imported from Munich, Germany. The building is listed as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument. It serves an active parish community in the University Park neighborhood near USC. The architecture serves as a prominent example of the 1920s boom in religious construction in Los Angeles.
From the sidewalk across Adams Boulevard to capture the full scope of the elaborate terra cotta facade.
Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as the church remains a very active place of worship on weekends.
Spend time observing the exterior terra cotta details, which are considered some of the most intricate in the city.
Check the parish bulletin online before visiting to ensure the main sanctuary is not closed for private services or events.
Do not attempt to enter the church during wedding ceremonies or funeral services, which occur frequently on weekends.
The church may be closed to the public during private liturgical events or significant parish holidays.
Dress modestly as this is an active place of worship; keep voices at a whisper and avoid walking around the sanctuary during active prayer services.
