The Best Churches In The World You Need To Visit

Discovering the Finest Churches Globally

The world is adorned with awe-inspiring churches, each narrating a unique tale of history, faith, and architectural brilliance. In this exploration, we traverse continents, from the United States to Colombia, Italy to Russia, uncovering the best churches that have stood the test of time. These sanctuaries not only symbolize religious devotion but also serve as beacons of artistry and historical significance.

Table of Contents

Chapel of the Holy Cross: Carved in Stone, Arizona’s Marvel

Location: Sedona, United States

Nestled in the mesmerizing city of Sedona, the Chapel of the Holy Cross stands as a testament to the fusion of architecture with the natural environment. This Roman Catholic church is uniquely carved directly into the vibrant red sandstone rocks, creating an intimate atmosphere. The soaring spire, a blend of metal and concrete, invites visitors to gaze skyward, evoking a sense of wonder. Inside, soft lighting and poignant religious iconography enhance the overall spiritual experience.

Gergeti Trinity Church: A Sacred Summit in Georgia

Location: Georgia

Perched 2170 meters above sea level on a mountain, Gergeti Trinity Church is a remarkable structure dating back to the 14th century. Legends claim it houses a piece of the cross of Christ. The journey to this sacred place involves a challenging yet breathtaking hike surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains. The church’s stone facade and historical allure make the arduous trek a rewarding experience.

St Mark’s Basilica: Venice’s Byzantine Jewel

Location: Venice, Italy

St Mark’s Basilica in Venice, Italy, stands as a captivating blend of Byzantine and Italian Gothic styles. Boasting over 8,000 square meters of intricate mosaics and marble columns, this basilica transports visitors to a realm of divine wonder upon entering. The golden mosaics adorning its walls and ceilings create a surreal atmosphere, making St Mark’s Basilica an iconic masterpiece of religious architecture.

The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake: Slovenia’s Island Marvel

Location: Lake Bled, Slovenia

Situated on a small island in Lake Bled, The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake, also known as Our Lady of the Lake, is a spectacular architectural marvel. The journey to the island by boat, accompanied by the soothing sound of church bells, sets the stage for a serene experience. The church’s rich history and iconic beauty make it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility in a sacred space.

St Patrick’s Cathedral: A Gothic Marvel in the Heart of New York City

Location: New York City, United States

St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City stands as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with soaring spires and intricate stone details. As the largest Gothic cathedral in the United States, it draws visitors from around the world. Crossing the massive wooden doors into the cavernous nave, one is enveloped in a sense of reverence and awe. The sheer scale and beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral make it an unforgettable spiritual and architectural experience.

Kizhi Pogost: Russia’s Wooden Architectural Marvel

Location: Kizhi Island, Russia

In the realm of the best churches globally, the Kizhi Pogost complex on Russia’s Kizhi Island commands attention. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases two stunning wooden churches and a towering bell tower, all constructed entirely from wood. The 22 cupolas on these churches, crafted over 300 years ago, display a level of intricacy that leaves travelers in awe. The Kizhi Pogost complex is a testament to the craftsmanship of the past and a marvel of architectural ingenuity.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Baroque Splendor in Malta

Location: Valletta, Malta

St. John’s Co-Cathedral, located in the heart of Valletta, Malta, is a sight to behold. Built by the Order of St. John in the 16th century, the cathedral’s facade may appear simple, but its interior boasts opulent Baroque decor and intricately detailed frescoes adorning the ceiling. Serving as a place of worship for centuries, it remains a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the artistic grandeur of Malta.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore: Florence’s Gothic Gem

Location: Florence, Italy

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore stands as a Gothic masterpiece in Florence, Italy. Its impressive facade, adorned with intricate sculptures, captivates visitors with its artistic grandeur. Beyond the exterior, the cathedral’s breathtaking interior further elevates the experience. While a popular tourist destination, it continues to hold religious services, preserving its role as a significant center of worship for the people of Florence.

Seville Cathedral: A Gothic Marvel in Southern Spain

Location: Seville, Spain

Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic-styled church in Christendom, commands attention with its sheer size and incredible Gothic splendor. From its enormous interior to the 30-meter-tall altarpiece gilded with gold, every corner tells a story of architectural brilliance. Exploring the grandiose sanctuary, treasury, and chapels adorned with Spanish paintings provides a profound insight into the religious and artistic heritage of southern Spain.

Las Lajas Sanctuary: Colombia’s Gothic Revival Marvel

Location: Guáitara River, Colombia

Nestled in a canyon on the Guáitara River in Colombia, Las Lajas Sanctuary showcases a magical display of Gothic Revival-style architecture. The basilica church, built between 1916 and 1949, took 33 years to complete. The church’s integration into the dramatic landscape, with a bridge crossing the cascading cliffs to the canyon floor, adds to its mystical charm. Despite its unfinished state, Las Lajas Sanctuary is a testament to human determination and artistic vision.

Westminster Abbey: London’s Royal Church

Location: London, United Kingdom

Westminster Abbey, situated in the heart of London, holds a special place in history as the former Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster. Dating back to 1065, this iconic church has witnessed the coronation of British monarchs for centuries. Visitors can explore the Royal Tombs, Poet’s Corner, Cloisters, and Nave, experiencing the grandeur of Gothic architecture. Known for its stained glass windows and impressive Western towers, Westminster Abbey stands as a royal testament to England’s rich heritage.

Hagia Sophia: Istanbul’s Byzantine Jewel

Location: Istanbul, Turkey

Among the churches on this distinguished list, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul holds a unique distinction as the only building used as a mosque. Built in 537 as the patriarchal cathedral, it served as the largest Christian church in the eastern Roman Empire. Today, it stands as a museum and mosque, inviting visitors to explore restored frescoes and mosaics from its Byzantine Cathedral era. Hagia Sophia’s enduring presence speaks to its historical significance and architectural splendor.

Milan Cathedral: Italy’s Gothic Triumph

Location: Milan, Italy

Milan Cathedral, also known as Duomo di Milano, stands as the largest church in Italy. The Gothic masterpiece, spanning nearly six centuries of construction, officially completed in 1965. With its location on Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral captivates with ornate spires and pinnacles. The interior, adorned with elegant details and tiled floors, offers a sensory delight. A walk on the cathedral’s roof provides a unique perspective, making it a must-visit destination in Milan.

Borgund Stave Church: Norway’s Medieval Marvel

Location: Borgund, Norway

Erected around 1180, the Borgund Stave Church is a striking example of Norway’s stave churches from the Medieval Period. The triple-nave church, intricately designed with rickety roof-tops and carved dragon heads, exudes a Viking-like aura. As one of the 28 remaining wooden churches in Norway, Borgund stands as a popular tourist attraction, preserving the country’s medieval architectural heritage.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Jerusalem’s Historic Center

Location: Jerusalem

Located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre has been recognized since the early Byzantine era. Today, this historical monument is identified as the site where Jesus Christ’s crucifixion took place and is one of the world’s major pilgrimage destinations. The church, although smaller in scale compared to some European cathedrals, holds immense significance. The Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem’s famous Christian pilgrimage walk, concludes within its hallowed walls.

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Saint Basil’s Cathedral: Russia’s Candy-Colored Wonder

Location: Moscow, Russia

St. Basil’s Cathedral, standing in the heart of Moscow’s Red Square, is an iconic candy-colored creation commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in the mid-1500s. Its kaleidoscopic appearance, characterized by whirling patterns and bright onion-colored domes, makes it one of the world’s most recognized landmarks. Beyond its distinctive exterior, the cathedral’s interior is adorned with splendid icons and murals, showcasing Russia’s rich religious and artistic heritage.

Notre Dame Cathedral: France’s Enduring Symbol

Location: Paris, France

Notre Dame de Paris, meaning ‘Our Lady of Paris,’ is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité. A quintessential example of Gothic architecture from the Middle Ages, it features gargoyles guarding its magnificent structure and flying buttresses supporting its walls. Despite the tragic fire in 2019 that partially destroyed Notre Dame, ongoing restoration work aims to fully restore it before the 2024 Summer Olympics in France. The famous Pieta of Notre-Dame Basilica, fortunately, survived the fire and is temporarily housed in the Louvre Museum.

St Paul’s Cathedral: London’s Renaissance Marvel

Location: London, United Kingdom

At the seat of the Bishop of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral stands as the largest and most famous of London’s churches. Built on the site of a Roman temple, the Renaissance church showcases magnificent dimensions. Restoration efforts have revitalized this London landmark, allowing visitors to explore its cathedral floor, galleries, and the towering dome. The whispering gallery, though temporarily closed, adds an intriguing acoustic element to the overall experience.

La Sagrada Familia: Barcelona’s Unfinished Masterpiece

Location: Barcelona, Spain

One of the world’s most renowned churches, La Sagrada Familia, initiated in 1882, remains incomplete to this day. Conceived by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, the modernist basilica is a stunning spectacle, featuring towering spires and ornate facades. Despite its unfinished state, La Sagrada Familia attracts visitors with its awe-inspiring presence. With plans to complete it by 2026, the basilica stands as a testament to Gaudi’s visionary architectural legacy.

St. Peter’s Basilica: Vatican City’s Grandeur

Location: Vatican City

As the world’s biggest church, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is an architectural marvel. Commissioned by Pope Julius II between 1506 and 1626, this Roman Catholic church encompasses approximately 22,300 square meters. The collaborative efforts of legendary figures like Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bramante have contributed to its grandeur. A tour of St. Peter’s Basilica unveils cavernous interiors, glittering treasures, elaborate decorations, and centuries-old artwork. Beyond its religious significance, the basilica stands as a testament to human creativity and devotion.

A Footnote on the Best Churches in the World

Whether you approach them with spiritual reverence or an appreciation for architectural beauty, visiting these historic churches is a unique and enriching experience. Not only have these beautiful buildings served as places of worship, but they also stand as some of the most incredible masterpieces of human achievement. From the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Arizona to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, each of these churches encapsulates centuries of history, artistic brilliance, and unwavering faith. As we explore these sacred spaces, we delve into the heart of humanity’s quest for the divine, leaving us in awe of the tangible beauty and intangible spirituality these churches embody.