Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church — Petersburg, Iowa
Towering above the rolling fields of Delaware County, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church is a striking historic landmark that has anchored the tiny community of Petersburg for more than a century. With its soaring spires and beautiful Gothic architecture, it’s one of those unexpected Iowa Road Trip stops that’s easy to fall in love with—whether you’re drawn by history, faith, or simply great photo ops.
📍 Address
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church
1625 300th Ave
Petersburg, IA 52040
Full gallery of photos from Ss Peter & Paul
A Beacon in Rural Iowa
Petersburg is a small unincorporated community, but Saints Peter and Paul stands tall—literally and figuratively—against the backdrop of Iowa’s open countryside. Its immense presence makes it one of the most distinctive rural churches in the state, with spires visible for miles around.
For road trippers cruising Delaware County, the church’s towering silhouette emerging on the horizon is one of those moments that makes you slow down and explore. Its dramatic architecture and deep community roots make it a worthy destination on any trip through northeast Iowa.
A Parish Born in the 19th Century
The original Saints Peter and Paul parish in Petersburg dates back to 1868, when area Catholics gathered for worship in a limestone church near the settlement. Over time, as the community grew and the original building became too small, plans were made for a new, more substantial church to match their aspirations and devotion.
Built to Last: The Church of 1906
In the early 1900s, parish leaders commissioned Dubuque architect Martin Heer to design a new stone church in the Late Gothic Revival style. Construction began and, in 1906, the magnificent Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church was completed. That same year, on October 24, 1906, it became the first consecrated church in the state of Iowa, a special dedication that permanently set the building apart for worship.
The massive structure was built with cut stone quarried from Stone City, Iowa, and features a towering central spire, finely crafted altars, beautiful stained glass, and a sense of scale that feels almost cathedral-like in the middle of rural farmland.
Architecture That Draws the Eye
Saints Peter and Paul is a textbook example of Gothic Revival church architecture, with its tall spires, pointed arches, and intricate stonework. The altar pieces and confessionals were crafted by the Hackner Altar Company of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and the interior frescos were painted by noted artist Joseph Walters of Dubuque.
Inside, visitors will notice stunning stained glass crafted under the direction of German artisans, rich decorative detail, and soaring vertical lines that draw your gaze skyward—designed to inspire awe and reflection.
A Community Center Through the Years
For generations, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church has been a focal point for the local Catholic community. While smaller rural Catholic schools in the area have consolidated, the church itself has persisted as a place of worship and gathering—reflecting both the faith of its founders and the continued commitment of parishioners.
In recent years, the community has rallied around preservation efforts to maintain this historic landmark for future generations, recognizing its cultural and architectural significance.
Recognized on the National Register
In 1995, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing both the artistry of its design and its importance to Iowa’s religious and architectural heritage.
That same designation helps ensure that this beautiful church remains a proud testament to the faith and craftsmanship of the people who built it—standing tall above the countryside it has watched over for more than a century.
Planning Your Visit
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church is often open for visitors daily, making it easy to explore this remarkable architecture up close.
Visitor Tips:
- The church is typically open daily from morning through late afternoon for touring.
- Respect services and parish activities when planning your trip
- Pair this stop with other historic sites or scenic drives through Delaware County.
A Must-See on Your Iowa Road Trip
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church isn’t just a building—it’s a piece of living history, visible for miles and rooted deeply in the faith of the Petersburg community. With its soaring spires and rich details, it’s a treasure for architecture lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys discovering the remarkable places tucked into Iowa’s rural landscape.
Make sure to add this striking Gothic landmark to your road trip list—you won’t forget it once you’ve seen it.
