There are many magnificent churches around the world. From onion domes and towering tops to lavish artworks steeped with history and gargoyles that watch over you, these churches are truly spectacular. These churches are filled to the brim with history, and their beauty is unmatched.
These impressive churches, built to host religious ceremonies, inspire and summon God’s adoration, have ranked among society’s most magnificent and significant structures. These churches, with their impressive facades, spires soaring to the skies, and the treasures they display in their naves and chapels, are some of the most significant historical landmarks.
Psst… While you’re on the hunt for the best churches, be sure to keep your eyes peeled, as most are located in the Most beautiful cities In the world.
The Best Churches in the World
From Romanesque and Gothic design to Renaissance and Baroque architecture, let’s take a look at the best churches in the world. These churches are listed in alphabetical order, but not necessarily in order of popularity.
20. Chapel of the Holy Cross (United States)
The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona’s breathtaking city is a perfect example of blending architecture and the environment. This Roman Catholic Church is carved into the red sandstone rock.
The spire’s metal and concrete construction draws the viewer upwards and instills awe. Visitors will enjoy the intimate atmosphere with its soft lighting and powerful but simple religious iconography.
19. Gergeti Trinity Church in Georgia
Gergeti Trinity Church is located in Georgia at 2170 meters high above sea level. This church is considered one of the best in the world. According to legend, the church was constructed in the 14th-century for the purpose of housing a cross piece.
To reach the church you must hike up a mountain. It is a demanding but beautiful journey. The path offers breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains and lush greenery. Upon arrival, the church’s stunning stone facade and historic intrigue make the strenuous hike well worth it.
18. St Mark’s Basilica, Italy
With its stunning blend of Byzantine and Italian Gothic styles, it is no wonder St Mark’s Basilica is considered one of the best churches in the world. This beautiful church is situated in the city of VeniceThe magnificent structure has over 8,000 sqm of mosaics, along with intricate columns made from marble.
The beauty and grandeur surrounding you as soon as you enter this basilica will leave you speechless. The golden mosaics on the walls, ceilings and floors shimmer with an otherworldly light that transports you into a realm filled with divine wonder.
17. The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake (Slovenia)
Church of the Mother of God on the Lake is also known as Our Lady of the Lake. It’s one of the most beautiful churches in the entire world. The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake, also known as Our Lady on the Lake in Slovenia is a stunning architectural wonder that represents the long-standing faith and tradition of the local people.
The beauty of the island is unparalleled, and its calm and serene environment is truly inspiring. As you approach the island by boat, the soothing sound of the church bells welcomes you, and you can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of peace. The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake, with its iconic beauty and rich history, is a must visit destination for anyone seeking peace in a sacred place.
16. St Patrick’s Cathedral, United States
St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. With its soaring stone details and intricate spires, it is one of the world’s most stunning churches.
As the largest Gothic cathedral in the United States, it’s no wonder that this iconic landmark draws visitors from all over the globe. As you enter the massive wooden doors and step into the cavernous nave, you can’t help but feel a sense of reverence and awe. The sheer scale and beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral is truly unforgettable.
15. Kizhi Pogost, Russia
When it comes to the best churches in the world, the Kizhi Pogost complex on Russia’s Kizhi Island is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features two wooden churches as well as a huge bell tower.
Even the most experienced of travelers will be astonished by the complexity of the domes and cupolas of these churches. These architecturally stunning buildings were built from wood over 300 years ago. The ingenuity and skill required to build them is a testimony to craftsmanship and a marvel of today.
14. St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Malta
Located in the heart of Valletta, Malta, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a sight to behold. The 16th-century cathedral, built by the Order St. John and dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is a sight to behold.
Although the exterior may appear simple, its interior is anything but. It features opulent Baroque decoration and frescoes that are intricately detailed. St. John’s Co-Cathedral has been a place of worship for centuries and is a popular tourist attraction for those visiting Malta.
13. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Italy
Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world. It is a stunning structure that should be seen by anyone visiting. Florence.
The impressive façade of the cathedral is decorated with intricate sculptures that have been masterfully crafted, making it a feast for the eyes. But there’s more to this cathedral than its stunning exterior.
Inside, you’ll find a breathtaking interior that is equally awe-inspiring. The cathedral, which is a favorite tourist destination, still hosts religious services. It’s an important place of worship for the citizens of Florence.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence is a must-see for anyone who enjoys architectural grandeur as well as religious heritage.
12. Seville Cathedral, Spain
Seville Cathedral is a sight that will take tourists by surprise. The magnificent structure is Christendom’s biggest Gothic-styled church and the third-largest when compared to the Neoclassical Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
Be awed by the cathedral’s sheer size and incredible Gothic splendor, from its enormous interior to the 30-meter-tall altarpiece gilded with gold. Book a Tickets with no waiting in line Spend some time exploring the magnificent sanctuary, the treasury of religious artifacts, and the chapels with Spanish paintings.
11. Las Lajas Sanctuary in Colombia
Nestled in a canyon on the Guáitara River in Colombia, Las las Sanctuary displays a magical sight of Gothic Revival-style architecture. The lavish basilica church took 33 years to construct, between 1916 and 1999.
It is impressive to see the way the church blends into the landscape. A bridge crosses the cliffs and leads down to the canyon’s floor.
10. Westminster Abbey, United Kingdom
Westminster Abbey in London’s center is a church worthy of a king. Since centuries, British monarchs have been crowned in the former Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster.
The abbey was founded in 1065, and has strong links with the British royal family. There’s plenty to see inside this masterpiece of Gothic architecture, from the Royal Tombs, the Poet’s Corner, the Cloisters and the Nave, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries.
Westminster Abbey, known for its stained glass window displays, also features two Gothic Revival-style Western towers.
Top Tip Buy your tickets to Westminster Abbey online and skip the queue.
9. Hagia Sophia, Turkey
The Hagia Sophia is the only church on this list that has been converted into a mosque. Interestingly, this famous European landmark hasn’t been an active church for over 500 years, yet Christian elements still remain.
Hagia Sophia, built in 537 to be the patriarchal Cathedral, is one of the oldest in the world. This impressive building was the largest Christian Church of the Eastern Roman Empire.
Hagia Sophia is a museum and mosque that allows visitors to see the restored mosaics and frescoes from its Byzantine cathedral days.
8. Milan Cathedral, Italy
Milan Cathedral, or also called Duomo di MilanoIt is the largest church of Italy. The construction of this massive Gothic masterpiece began in 1386. It was officially completed in 1964.
Piazza del Duomo, one of the biggest churches in the World at 11,700 sqm, is a perfect location for the Duomo. This Roman Catholic cathedral has a lot of details, from the overly ornate spires on the Duomo and the elegantly-tiled floors that welcome you to the interior. If you get a chance to visit Milan, don’t miss a walk on the roof of the Duomo, it’s great fun.
Psst…Get ahead of the crowd and book your ticket Explore all the splendors in the Milan Cathedral.
7. Borgund Stave, Norway
The Borgund Stave Church, erected around 1180, is one of Norway’s best examples of a stave church from the Medieval Period. The triple-nave church is intricately designed with rickety roof-tops and carved dragon heads guarding the gables – giving you that chilling Viking-like feel (and look).
Borgund, one of Norway’s most popular tourist attractions, is located in a lush valley. It is also one of only 28 wooden churches that remain today. The church, which no longer serves religious purposes, is now a visitor centre that provides information on Norwegian stave churches.
6. Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem
Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. It has been a recognized landmark since the Byzantine times. 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 is smaller than some of Europe’s great cathedrals. Moreover, the Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem’s famous Christian pilgrimage walk, ends here.
5. Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Russia
St. Basil’s Cathedral, located in the heart of Moscow’s Red Square, has a kaleidoscopic appearance owing to its whirling patterns and bright onion-colored domes.
The candy-colored creation, commanded by Ivan the Terrible in the mid-1500s, is one of Europe’s – and the world’s – most recognized landmarks. The cathedral’s exterior is distinctive, but the interior is equally beautiful. It is covered with icons and murals.
4. Notre Dame Cathedral, France
Notre Dame de Paris, meaning ‘Our Lady of Paris,’ is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité. A famous example of a Gothic cathedral constructed during the Middle Ages, you’ll find gargoyles guarding this magnificent structure and flying buttresses jutting out from the wall tops.
The foundation for the current cathedral was laid by the ruins of older basilicas, built between the 12th and the 14th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will be temporarily closed.
That’s because unfortunately, Notre Dame was partially destroyed by fire in April 2019. The restoration work continues, with 200 workers working on the site every day. It is hoped that Notre Dame will be fully restored before the Summer Olympics of 2024 in France.
The Famous Pieta de Notre-Dame Basilica The fire did not destroy the statue. This white marble carving of Virgin Mary cradling Jesus Christ’s body is usually found on the high altar, but it has been relocated to the Louvre for the time being.
Psst… While you’re in France, don’t forget to snap a few pictures at some other Famous French landmarks.
3. St Paul’s Cathedral, United Kingdom
At the seat of the Bishop of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral is the largest and most famous of London’s churches. Built on the ruins of an ancient Roman temple, this structure was rebuilt after the original was destroyed. The Renaissance church is a magnificent structure: 365 feet high, 227 feet wide in the transepts and 515 feet long, with two towers of 212 foot height, plus a dome of 365 foot.
Today, after restoration and the removal of 250 years of accumulated grime, St Paul’s Cathedral has been fully restored and still holds daily services. This famous London landmark features a temporary closed whispering gallery, where you can only hear the slightest whispers from either side.
Top TipThe cathedral dome offers a spectacular view. Book an entrance ticket to enjoy it.
2. La Sagrada Familia, Spain
One of the world’s most renowned churches, the La Sagrada Familia construction began in 1882 and stands uncompleted to this day. Antoni Gaud, the famous architect from Barcelona, Spain, died before he could complete his masterpiece.
La Sagrada is expected to be completed by 2026. This modernist basilica, despite its unfinished state, is breathtaking to look at, with its ornate facades and towering spires.
Top Tip Tickets to tour the Sagrada Familia are often sold out; it’s best to buy your skip-the-line tickets in advance.
1. St. Peter’s Basilica, Italy
Considering that the Vatican City is home to the pope and the seat of Catholicism, it comes to reason that it also has the world’s biggest church, St. Peter’s Basilica. The building’s size is 22,300 square meters.
Pope Julius II commissioned this Roman Catholic church to be the most grandiose building in Christendom. The cathedral was built from 1506 to 1626. Legendary figures such as Raphael Michelangel, and Bramante contributed to its creation.
Take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and marvel at the cavernous interiors, glittering treasures, elaborate decorations, and centuries-old artwork on display in this architectural masterpiece.
The Best Churches Around the World
It doesn’t matter whether you consider yourself a religious person or not. There is something special when visiting these sacred historical sites while on vacation. These beautiful buildings have served the community and are also some of the greatest masterpieces.
From the place of Jesus’s crucifixion to the largest cathedral in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, you’re bound to be awed by their history, arts, and extraordinary beauty.
So, now that we’ve covered the best churches in the world and all their glory, which one have you been to? And what’s your favorite thing about it? Please share; we’d love to know.
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