15 Breathtaking Historic Churches Around the World You Have to See
Step into the past and walk through the doors of some of the most awe-inspiring historic churches. They are more than just beautiful to look at. Stories from early Christianity are found in their stonework, stained glass, and holy relics.
Many of the world’s most famous churches receive millions of tourists annually. For example, according to UNWTO estimates, 300 to 330 million tourists visit the world´s key religious sites annually. These places move beyond religion and building design, turning into memories of the greatness of humanity.
From the grand domes of Italy to the hand-carved wooden details of Norway’s ancient chapels, these places show off just how skilled and creative people have been for centuries. If you’re into architecture, travel, or love seeing beautiful places, these 15 historic churches worldwide are worth a visit.
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey
The Hagia Sophia has shown the world its beautiful works of art for years. Previously a Byzantine church and later a mosque, it is now a museum and religious house, connecting Europe with Asia in its impressive design.
With a dome that appears to float from the ground and contains beautiful mosaics sharing Hagia Sophia’s religious history, it’s easy to see why the building is special. Touch a gilt chandelier and peer around, and you’ll be drawn into the dim world of centuries-old inventive lighting.
Apart from being rich in history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site amazes people today with its fantastic architecture.
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain
Could Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece be more out of the ordinary than any other church? Sagrada Familia includes tributes to nature, religion, and geometry, which are blended exquisitely in a tower of spires.
According to the BBC report, Construction began in 1883, and the church continues evolving yearly. Its interior feels like stepping into an otherworldly forest, with towering tree-like columns that stretch skywards.
Gaudí said, “Beauty is the radiance of Truth.” The Sagrada Familia certainly stands out.
Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France
The massive fire in 2019 may have temporarily obscured Notre Dame’s history, but its influence on Gothic architecture remains immense. Visitors have been charmed by this place’s flying buttresses, gargoyles, and amazing stained glass for over eight hundred years.
At the entrance, the sun from the rose windows brings out colorful patterns across all the tiled floors. Striking this place, anyone can sense the link between faith, history, and art.
St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, Russia
The colorful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral look almost like jewels set within Red Square. According to a report by Harvard University, it was built in 1561 by Ivan the Terrible. Its vibrant exteriors and intricate interiors have made it a symbol of Russian cultural heritage.
The cathedral’s domes tell a story of togetherness in diversity. It is said that the architect’s eyes were taken out to keep him from ever building a cathedral that was this impressive.
Chartres Cathedral in France
This grand Cathedral is an outstanding example of the French Gothic style. Travelers and pilgrims have been drawn to Notre Dame by its famous arches and blue-tinted glass since the 12th century.
Walking on the carved path on the floor will help you meditate, and the statues and reliefs show essential stories from the Bible in striking detail. This cathedral has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 for a reason. It stands for peace, amazement, and trust.
St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City
Renaissance architecture’s grandest masterpiece is the Basilica of St. Peter. Thanks to Michelangelo’s design, the cathedral features his renowned Pietà sculpture. The dome of St. Peter’s Basilica rises high over Vatican City and is the central point of the Catholic Church.
Light from outside shines through the windows and warms each corner of the interior. Millions of visitors come each year to stand beneath the dome, which bridges heaven and earth.
Westminster Abbey in London, England
For more than a thousand years, Westminster Abbey has symbolized British history. The building has been the site of royal ceremonies, including weddings, coronations, and funerals. Despite its association with the monarchy, the abbey’s architecture and solemn beauty transcend its political ties.
Standing among the arched ceilings and peaceful chapels will give you a feeling of calm respect. Navigating the grounds feels almost like touching history.
Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey in France
UNESCO describes Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey as something out of a storybook. It is perched dramatically on a rocky tidal island. The strong charm of this medieval abbey towers over the water, allowing people to admire views of both land and sea.
The building’s towers seem to reach heaven, and its quiet interiors and cloisters offer a relaxing atmosphere. Many pilgrims and adventurers climb this winding path all year round and find peace and support with every step.
Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg, Russia
This great church is a marvel of color and carefully crafted ornaments. According to Expedia, Alexander III built it to commemorate his father, Emperor Alexander II, who was assassinated there. About 7,500 square meters of mosaics adorn the walls of the Basilica di San Marco.
The intricate patterns and vibrant hues tell stories of faith and tragedy, mirroring the turbulence of the emperor’s time. You can’t do justice to their visual beauty by just taking photos.
Duomo di Milano in Milan, Italy
The stunning Duomo, also known as Milan Cathedral, is a pinnacle of Italian Gothic style. The vast complex is filled with more than 135 spires and 3,000 carvings, earning it the title of one of the most impressive churches.
The stained glass windows send light throughout the church, creating a nearly ethereal feeling. To enjoy the best views of Milan, you should visit the city’s rooftop terrace, where you will see marble statues of saints overhead.
Catedral de Sevilla in Seville, Spain
No church reaches the size and detail of the Seville Cathedral, making it the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. It’s also home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb. With gold everywhere on its retablo, the church will impress all who visit with its brilliant look.
The Moorish-style courtyards and arches throughout show a mix of cultures.
The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia
Carved entirely out of rock, says UNESCO, the churches of Lalibela are nothing short of miraculous. Built as places of worship in the 12th century, these 11 sturdy buildings, some connected by tunnels, continue to serve this purpose today.
From the outside, Biete Giyorgis looks like it was built out of the ground. It is one of Ethiopia’s best gifts, showcasing strong religious feelings and creative skills.
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá in Colombia
The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá is built inside a salt mine hidden inside halite rocks in Colombia. Its illuminated cross-shaped sculptures and chapels create a surreal atmosphere, blending spirituality with nature’s handiwork.
Being here is calming and spiritual, as the salt walls appear to brighten everything with an unusual glow.
Fraumünster Church in Zurich, Switzerland
Fraumünster Church in Zurich shows perfect peace and beautiful art. What attracts attention most at the basilica is the stained-glass work by artist Marc Chagall.
Those vibrant hues tell Bible stories in an abstract and otherworldly manner that amazes those who see them. Once you enter, the house includes a sacred space and an experience defined by light and shadow.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, USA
Thanks to its impressive Neo-Gothic style, St. Patrick’s Cathedral stands out above all the other tall buildings in Manhattan. Its highest points fit naturally into the city’s skyline, and delicately detailed artwork adds a touch of class to this place built of steel and glass.
Many residents and tourists look to its peaceful gardens to escape the city’s disorder for a little while. Every season is marked inside the Cathedral by meaningful tradition, from the calm feeling of Christmas Mass to the gentle gravity of Holy Week.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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