First Church of Christ, Scientist, Berkeley (must see)

The First Church of Scientist is located near People's Park in downtown Berkeley. The church building was constructed in 1910 using elements from multiple architectural styles. The building displays influences from Byzantine Revival, Romanesque Revival and Gothic Revival architecture.

The church was designed by Bernard Maybeck who was an architect and instructor at UC Berkeley. This church is considered one of his great masterpieces alongside the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.

The plan of the church is that of a Greek Cross. Two pairs of crossed trusses with gilt inlays span the interior. There are also a number of Roman arches, unique tiles and industrial steel sashes over the windows. Visitors are welcome to tour the church interior. They may also attend worship services, which take place every Sunday.

Due to its location on the corner of Bowditch Street and Dwight Way, it is very easy for visitors to admire the building's architecture. From street level, tourists can see the hammered Belgian glass of the windows and the carved reliefs that top the exterior columns. They will also be able to pinpoint the Japanese influences that are apparent in the courtyard rooftops and the portal to the Sunday School wing.

The First Church of Christ, Scientist is on the National Register of Historic Places. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977. Preservation and restoration of the church is managed by the Friends of First Church.

Why You Should Visit:
- To see what many consider to be Bernard Maybeck's greatest masterpiece.
- To appreciate the blending of various architectural styles in one place.

Tips:
Free tours of the First Church of Christ, Scientist are available the first Sunday of every month.