Christian Science Plaza

Christian Science Plaza. A prominent 14.5-acre complex in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, serving as the global headquarters for The First Church of Christ, Scientist. The plaza is renowned for its monumental scale, reflecting pool, and distinctive architectural ensemble that includes the original Mother Church and a striking modernist addition. It functions as both a sacred administrative center and a significant public urban space, attracting visitors for its architecture, tranquility, and seasonal events.

History and development

The site's history is deeply intertwined with the growth of the Christian Science religion, founded by Mary Baker Eddy in the late 19th century. The original Mother Church was completed in 1894 on the site of a former boarding house, with a larger Extension added in 1906 to accommodate a growing congregation. The concept for a grand plaza was envisioned in the mid-20th century to unify the church's campus and create a more imposing presence. Under the direction of the church's Board of Directors, the plaza was designed by the renowned architectural firm I. M. Pei & Associates and officially dedicated in 1973. The ambitious project involved the acquisition and demolition of several surrounding buildings, including the former New England Christian Science Publishing Society building, to create the expansive open space seen today.

Architecture and design

The plaza is a masterwork of modernist urban design, characterized by geometric precision and the use of grand, simple forms. The architectural focal point is the Christian Science Center, a 28-story administration building designed by I. M. Pei with Araldo Cossutta as lead designer, featuring a distinctive cruciform shape and a facade of precast concrete and glass. It is flanked by the older Romanesque Revival and Renaissance Revival styles of the original Mother Church and its Extension. The most iconic feature is the 670-foot-long reflecting pool, one of the longest in the world, which visually connects the complex and mirrors the surrounding architecture. The design employs materials like granite, concrete, and brick, creating a harmonious yet monumental aesthetic that dominates the surrounding Back Bay streetscape.

Features and landmarks

The plaza's central water feature, the massive reflecting pool, is lined with trees and fountains, culminating at a circular basin near the Mary Baker Eddy Library. The library, housed in a former publishing building, is home to the Mapparium, a unique three-story stained-glass globe walkway. Other key structures include the Colonnade Building, which houses the Christian Science Publishing Society and the Christian Science Monitor, and the Church Administration Building. The grounds are adorned with several monuments, including a fountain and bench dedicated to the church's Board of Directors and landscaped plazas with seasonal plantings. The entire complex is bordered by major streets like Huntington Avenue, Massachusetts Avenue, and Belvidere Street.

Role in the Christian Science movement

As the international headquarters, the plaza is the central administrative and spiritual hub for the Christian Science religion. It houses the Christian Science Publishing Society, which publishes the award-winning Christian Science Monitor newspaper and other religious literature. The Mary Baker Eddy Library serves as a major archive and research center dedicated to the life and work of Mary Baker Eddy. The Mother Church hosts the annual Meeting of the Mother Church, a global gathering of members. The plaza's scale and permanence were intended to symbolize the stability and global reach of the Christian Science movement, projecting an image of authority and faith to the world.

Public use and events

While a private religious property, the plaza is designed as a welcoming public space and is extensively used by the residents of Boston and tourists. It is a popular site for walking, relaxation, and photography, especially in the summer when the fountains are active. The church has historically hosted free public concerts, including performances by the Boston Landmarks Orchestra. During the winter, the reflecting pool is often used for ice skating. The plaza also serves as a gathering point for community events and has been a location for public demonstrations and civic celebrations. Its open design and central location in the Back Bay make it a significant pedestrian link between the Prudential Center and Symphony Hall areas.