Latter-day Saint temples are among the most recognizable religious landmarks in many communities, particularly in Utah, where the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has deep historical roots. But how many LDS temples are there around the world?
According to the figures in the source transcript, there are 385 LDS temples that are either completed and operating, under construction, or officially announced.
How Many LDS Temples Are in the United States?
The United States has 152 temples included in the transcript’s total. Not every state has a temple, although the Church continues to announce and build temples in different locations.
Utah has a particularly high concentration, with 32 temples included in the figures. This reflects the state’s important place in Latter-day Saint history. Mormon pioneers settled in Utah in the 19th century after facing religious persecution elsewhere.
The Salt Lake Temple is one of the most recognizable symbols of the state. Its construction took approximately 40 years, making it a landmark comparable in cultural visibility to other famous structures around the world.
How Many LDS Temples Are Outside the United States?
According to the transcript, there are 227 international temples, meaning there are more temples outside the United States than within it.
The transcript provides the following breakdown by continent:
- Africa: 29 temples
- South America: 62 temples
- Asia: 32 temples
- Europe: 26 temples
- Oceania: 23 temples
Together with the temples in the United States, these figures illustrate how extensively the Church has expanded temple construction beyond its historical center in the United States.
When Was the First LDS Temple Built?
The first temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was built in Kirtland, Ohio, and dedicated in 1836. Temple construction has remained an important part of the Church’s history ever since.
The growth of temples reflects the Church’s emphasis on making temple worship accessible to members in different parts of the world.
Why Are LDS Temples Important?
For Latter-day Saints, a temple is more than an architectural landmark. Church members believe that a temple is the house of God—a sacred place where they can worship, draw closer to God, learn about their eternal identity, and seek spiritual strength.
This belief helps explain why temple construction is such an important part of the Church’s worldwide growth. Temples are intended to provide members with places where they can worship and participate in sacred ordinances and covenants.
The phrase “Holiness to the Lord. House of the Lord.” appears on Latter-day Saint temples and reflects their sacred purpose.
Why Is the Church Building Temples Around the World?
The Church’s temple-building efforts are connected to its belief that the blessings and worship associated with temples should be accessible to members throughout the world.
Rather than requiring members to travel long distances to reach a temple, building temples in different countries and regions brings these sacred places closer to the communities where Latter-day Saints live.
For Church members, temple worship is also viewed as a source of spiritual strength. Temples provide a place to step away from everyday distractions, focus on God, and strengthen their commitment to their faith.
Can Anyone Visit an LDS Temple?
People of any faith can visit the grounds around an LDS temple and enjoy its architecture, landscaping, and gardens. However, entrance into a dedicated temple is reserved for Latter-day Saints who meet the Church’s requirements for a temple recommend.
There is an important exception for newly constructed temples. Before a temple is dedicated for regular sacred use, the Church may hold an open house. During an open house, members of the public—including people of other religions and people who are not religious—can tour the interior of the temple and learn more about its purpose.
A Growing Global Presence
The number of LDS temples reflects both the historical development and worldwide expansion of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. From the first temple in Kirtland in 1836 to temples across multiple continents today, temple construction has remained a significant part of Latter-day Saint worship and identity.
According to the figures presented in the transcript, the total is 385 temples when completed, under-construction, and announced temples are counted together. For Latter-day Saints, however, the significance of these buildings goes beyond the number itself. Each temple represents a place dedicated to worship, sacred covenants, learning, and drawing closer to God.
