From towering tops and onion domes to extravagant artworks steeped in history and gargoyles as watchdogs, there are some magnificent churches dotted throughout the world. Standing head and shoulders above the rest, these places of worship are filled with history and dazzled with extraordinary beauty.Â
These impressive churches, built to host religious ceremonies, inspire and summon God’s adoration, have ranked among society’s most magnificent and significant structures. With monumental facades, spires reaching towards the heavens and treasures displayed in their chapels and naves, these beautiful churches make for some of the most influential and historical landmarks.Â
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.Â
![The best churches in the world](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/The-Best-Churches-in-the-World.jpg)
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 popular churches are numbered for ease of reference, but in no particular order.
20. Chapel of the Holy Cross, United States
Located in the breathtaking city of Sedona, The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a prime example of the blending of architecture with the environment. This Roman Catholic church is carved directly into the red sandstone rocks.
Its soaring spire, made of metal and concrete, draws the eye skyward and inspires viewers with a sense of awe and wonder. Once inside, visitors will notice the intimate atmosphere, with soft lighting and simple yet powerful religious iconography.
![The Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona, Arizona](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Chapel-of-the-Holy-Cross-in-Arizona-800x533.jpg)
19. Gergeti Trinity Church, Georgia
Perched atop a mountain 2170 meters above sea level, Gergeti Trinity Church in Georgia is one of the most remarkable churches in the world. It is said that the church was built in the 14th century to house a piece of wood from the cross of Christ.
To reach the church, one must embark on a challenging yet breathtaking hike up the mountain. The path is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains. Upon arrival, the church’s stunning stone facade and historic intrigue make the strenuous hike well worth it.
![Gergeti Trinity Church Or Tsminda Sameba - Holy Trinity Church](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Gergeti-church-in-Georgia-800x599.jpg)
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. Located in the enchanting city of Venice, this magnificent structure boasts over 8,000 square meters of mosaics together with intricate marble columns.
As you enter the basilica, you are immediately mesmerized by the beauty and grandeur that surround you. The golden mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings shimmer with an otherworldly glow that transports you to a realm of divine wonder.
![Basilica di San Marco golden dome, Venice, Italy](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/St-Marks-Basilica-in-Venice-800x534.jpg)
17. The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake, Slovenia
The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake, also known as Our Lady of the Lake, is one of the most spectacular churches in the world. Located on a small island on Lake Bled in Slovenia, this church is an architectural marvel that speaks to the centuries-old faith of the people.
Its beauty is unmatched, and the calm and serene atmosphere surrounding it is truly awe-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. With its rich history and iconic beauty, The Church of the Mother of God on the Lake is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking serenity in a sacred space.
![Our Lady of the Lake, Slovenia](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Our-Lady-of-the-Lake-on-Lake-Bled-800x600.jpg)
16. St Patrick’s Cathedral, United States
St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its soaring spires and intricate stone details make it one of the most stunning churches in the world.
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.
![St. Patrick's Cathedral - New York](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/St-Patricks-Cathedral-in-New-York-City-800x534.jpg)
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 boasts two stunning wooden churches and a towering bell tower, all of which are made entirely of wood.
The intricacy of the 22 cupolas, or domes, on these churches will leave even the most seasoned of travelers in awe. The skill and ingenuity required to construct these architecturally astounding buildings from wood, over 300 years ago, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the past and a true marvel of today.
![Kizhi Pogost Complex in Russia](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Kizhi-Pogost-complex-in-Russia-800x533.jpg)
14. St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Malta
Located in the heart of Valletta, Malta, St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a sight to behold. Built by the Order of St. John in the 16th century, the cathedral is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist.
Its facade may seem simple, but the interior is anything but. It boasts opulent Baroque decor and intricately detailed frescoes adorning the ceiling. St. John’s Co-Cathedral has been a place of worship for centuries and is a popular tourist attraction for those visiting Malta.
![St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Malta](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/St.-Johns-Co-Cathedral-Valletta-800x533.jpg)
13. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Italy
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture that is regarded as one of the best churches in the world. This imposing structure is a must-see for 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. And while the cathedral is a popular destination for tourists, it still holds religious services, making it an important center of worship for the people of Florence.
Visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a must for those who appreciate architectural grandeur and religious heritage.
![Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/48-hours-in-florence-italy.jpg)
12. Seville Cathedral, Spain
Nothing can prepare tourists for the majesty of Seville Cathedral. 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.Â
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 skip-the-line ticket and spend a few hours exploring the grandiose sanctuary, the treasury containing religious objects, and chapels adorned with Spanish paintings.Â
![Catholic Cathedral Saint Mary of the See in Seville, Andalusia, Spain](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Seville-cathedral-spain.jpg)
11. Las Lajas Sanctuary, Colombia
Nestled in a canyon on the Guáitara River in Colombia, Las las Sanctuary displays a magical sight of Gothic Revival-style architecture. The extravagant basilica church was built between 1916 and 1949, taking a total of 33 years to build.Â
The incredible building is most impressive when you see how the church fits into the dramatic landscape, with a bridge crossing the cascading cliffs to the canyon floor.
![The National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Las Lajas in Columbia](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/las-lajas-sanctuary.jpg)
10. Westminster Abbey, United Kingdom
Westminster Abbey, in the center of London, is a church fitting for a king or queen. In fact, the former Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster is where the British Monarchs have been crowned for centuries.Â
The abbey church was built in 1065 and held strong ties 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.Â
Known for its stained glass windows, Westminster Abbey also has two impressive Western towers built in the Gothic Revival style.
Top Tip: Skip the line and buy your ticket to Westminster Abbey here.Â
![Dean's Yard, Westminster Abbey, London, United Kingdom](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/westminster-abbey.jpg)
9. Hagia Sophia, Turkey
Out of all the churches on this list, the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is the only building used as a mosque. Interestingly, this famous European landmark hasn’t been an active church for over 500 years, yet Christian elements still remain.Â
Built in 537 as the patriarchal cathedral, Hagia Sophia is also one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. The imposing building was also the largest Christian church of the eastern Roman Empire.
Today, the Hagia Sophia stands as a mosque and museum for visitors to explore the restored frescoes and mosaics that date from the time it stood as a Byzantine Cathedral.Â
![Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/hagia-sophia-istanbul.jpg)
8. Milan Cathedral, Italy
Milan Cathedral, also known as Duomo di Milano, is the largest church in Italy. The gigantic Gothic masterpiece took nearly six centuries to complete, with construction beginning in 1386 and officially completed in 1965.Â
One of the largest churches in the world at 11,700 square meters, the Duomo has a great location on Piazza del Duomo. This Roman Catholic cathedral is dazzling with detail, from overly ornate spires and pinnacles of the Duomo to the elegantly tiled floors welcoming you to the interior space. 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 to explore all the splendors of the Milan Cathedral.Â
![The Duomo di Milano and Piazza del Duomo at sunset](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/milan-cathedral-italy.jpg)
7. Borgund Stave Church, 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).
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway, Borgund is nestled in a verdant valley and is one of the 28 remaining wooden churches today. The landmark, which is no longer utilized for religious reasons, now functions as a visitor center with information about Norwegian stave churches.
![Borgund Stave Church in Norway](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/borgund-stave-church-norway.jpg)
6. Church of the Holy Sepulchre, 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.Â
The church is on a more modest scale than some of the great cathedrals of Europe. Moreover, the Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem’s famous Christian pilgrimage walk, ends here.Â
![Inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/church-of-the-holy-sepulchre-jerusalem-533x800.jpg)
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.Â
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. Although the cathedral is famed for its distinctive appearance, the inside is just as splendid as the icons and murals that cover its surface.Â
![St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/st-basils-cathedral-moscow.jpg)
4. Notre Dame Cathedral, France
Notre Dame de Paris, meaning ‘Our Lady of Paris,’ is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the ÃŽle 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.Â
The ruins of two older basilicas constitute the foundation of the present cathedral, which was built during the 12th and 14th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is temporarily closed.
That’s because unfortunately, Notre Dame was partially destroyed by fire in April 2019. Restoration work is ongoing, with 200 construction workers on site each day. The aim is to completely restore Notre Dame before the 2024 Summer Olympics in France.
The famous Pieta of Notre-Dame Basilica survived the fire. This white marble sculpture of the Virgin Mary cradling the body of Jesus Christ is normally located on the high altar but has been moved to the Louvre Museum for now.
Psst… While you’re in France, don’t forget to snap a few pictures at some other famous French landmarks.Â
![Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral in Paris, France before the fire](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/notre-dame-de-paris-cathedral.jpg)
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. Located on the site of a Roman temple, the structure was built after the original church was destroyed. The Renaissance church boasts magnificent dimensions: 365 ft high, 227 ft wide across the transepts, 515 ft long with two 212-foot-high towers, and a 365-foot dome. Â
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 well known London landmark has a temporarily closed whispering gallery where you can hear the faintest whisper from each side.
Top Tip: Book an entry ticket and explore the cathedral floor, its three galleries, and enjoy phenomenal views from the towering dome.Â
![St Paul's Cathedral is a famous London landmark](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/st-pauls-cathedral-london-800x636.jpg)
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. Famous architect, Antoni Gaudi, died before his masterpiece in Barcelona, Spain could be realized.Â
There are, however, plans to complete the La Sagrada by 2026. And despite being unfinished, this modernist basilica is stunning to see, from its towering spires to its splendid ornate facades.Â
Top Tip: Tickets to tour the Sagrada Familia are often sold out; it’s best to buy your skip-the-line tickets in advance.  Â
![La Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona, Spain](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/la-sagrada-familia-barcelona-spain.jpg)
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 enormous building covers approximately 22,300 square meters.
This Roman Catholic church was commissioned by Pope Julius II to be the grandest building in Christendom. The cathedral was built between 1506 and 1626, with legendary figures contributing to its works, including Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bramante.Â
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.Â
![St Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy](https://luxurycolumnist.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/st-peters-basilica-rome.jpg)
A Footnote on the Best Churches in the World
Whether or not you consider yourself to be a spiritual person, there is something special about visiting these sacred historic sites during a trip. Not only have these beautiful buildings served a place in the community, but they also stand to be some of the most incredible masterpieces.Â
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.Â
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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