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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Religious sites

Dahlgren Chapel of the Sacred Heart

Dedicated in 1893, this historic Jesuit-administered chapel serves as the spiritual heart of Georgetown University, offering a tranquil sanctuary of faith and reflection within the historic Dahlgren Quadrangle.

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Dahlgren Chapel of the Sacred Heart
campusministry.georgetown.edu, og_image_campusministry.georgetown.edu

What is the Dahlgren Chapel of the Sacred Heart known for?

It is described as the spiritual heart of the Georgetown community and a haven of tranquility and repose. It is a historic local landmark and a contributing property of the Georgetown Historic District.

What are the hours for Mass at Dahlgren Chapel?

Weekday Mass is held Monday through Friday at 12:10 PM. Sunday Masses are scheduled for 11 AM, 6 PM, 8 PM, and 10 PM, though they are not held in June or July.

Is the chapel wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible via a ramp from Dahlgren Quad, although it does not have automatic entry doors.

Are there restrooms available in the chapel?

No, there are no public restrooms inside Dahlgren Chapel. Accessible restrooms are available nearby at Healy Hall or the Hawkins Hall Ecumenical Chapel.

How much does it cost to have a wedding at Dahlgren Chapel?

The current chapel fee per wedding is $1,500.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Dahlgren Chapel of the Sacred Heart, dedicated in 1893, stands as the primary Catholic chapel on the Georgetown University campus. Located in the historic center of the campus within the Dahlgren Quadrangle, it is surrounded on three sides by some of the university's oldest buildings. The chapel is a contributing property of the Georgetown Historic District and is officially listed on the District of Columbia Inventory of Historic Sites. The structure was funded by Elizabeth Wharton Drexel Dahlgren as a memorial to her infant son, who passed away in 1891. This poignant history is preserved within the walls, where the Dahlgren family crypt is located. Administered by Jesuits under the Archdiocese of Washington, the chapel continues to be a site of deep spiritual significance, hosting the Dahlgren Dialogues, which are conversations regarding the intersection of faith and public life. Architecturally, the chapel is known for its serene atmosphere and stained glass. It can accommodate approximately 300 guests for weddings, which are held on Saturdays. For those seeking quietude, the space serves as a haven of repose for students, faculty, and alumni to attend Mass, seek reconciliation, or engage in private prayer. Visitors should note that the chapel is wheelchair accessible via a ramp from the quad, though it lacks automatic entry doors. While it remains a center for daily spiritual life, it occasionally undergoes maintenance, such as the lighting system upgrades scheduled for June and July 2026.

Visitor tips

  • Use the ramp from Dahlgren Quad for wheelchair access, but be aware there are no automatic doors.
  • If you need a restroom, head to Healy Hall or the Hawkins Hall Ecumenical Chapel nearby.
  • Be mindful that Masses often use incense, which may be strong for those with fragrance sensitivities.

Nearby context

The chapel is situated in the heart of the Georgetown University campus, forming the center of the Dahlgren Quadrangle and surrounded by the university's most historic buildings.

Sources

Evidence and links