Houstonmetropolis of the south

Recently named one of the 10 greatest places to experience art by GQ magazine and one of Texas’ 10 best art destinations by Texas Monthly, this contemplative space was founded by John and Dominique de Menil, the philanthropists also behind Houston’s superb Menil Collection. Built to house 14 monumental murals by Russian-born American abstract expressionist Mark Rothko, the chapel was dedicated in 1971. Religious ceremonies of all faiths take place at the chapel, as do human rights rallies and programs that have hosted world figures including the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela.