Religious or not, churches have always been among the most beautiful structures on Earth.
With monumental facades and spires that reach into the skies, these places of worship brim with history while stunning with extraordinary beauty. Take some time out of your daily work, playing online poker on platforms described at https://centiment.io etc. and visit any of these churches to soothe your mind.
La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona stands as an outstanding example. Designed by architect Antoni Gaudi and begun construction in 1882, its construction still continues today as it will eventually become one of the most breathtaking churches when completed.
1. Notre Dame Cathedral
Churches have always been one of society’s most exquisite and influential structures. Built to host religious services, inspire devotional feelings, and summon God’s adoration, churches are revered among society as majestic buildings with impressive steeples, onion domes and elaborate artwork that dazzle their followers with exceptional beauty. Cathedrals and basilicas stand out as particularly stunning structures, elevating life beyond everyday struggles and making everyday moments extraordinary experiences.
Notre Dame Cathedral on Ile de la Cit is one such church that stands as an embodiment of French Gothic architecture and represents France’s rich history and culture. Napoleon Bonaparte was even crowned Emperor of France here in 1804.
Construction on this cathedral began at the end of the 12th century and took over two centuries to complete. It features intricate sculptures depicting numerous biblical figures and events on its facade, which also contains unique displays to inform visitors about these historical figures and events.
Added during restoration in the 19th century, its spire was modelled after that in Orleans by architect Viollet-le-Duc. You can get an excellent close-up view of gargoyles designed to look like water spouts here as well.
Notre Dame Cathedral suffered extensive roof damage following a fire in April 2019, which is expected to take five years for full restoration. But even during that period, its impressive facade remains open for public view from below or its bell towers – not forgetting over 14 million visitors per year who marvel at its beauty from above and below!
2. La Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is more than a modern take on classic cathedrals; it aims to exceed any expectations set forth by medieval architects. A work of art that marries grand scale buildings with cutting-edge designs and features never before seen in church construction, the Sagrada Familia is truly captivating sight to behold.
Antoni Gaudi designed and began construction of Basilica I Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia in 1882. Gaudi saw his design as an artistic representation of Christian beliefs, embedding religious symbolism into every aspect. Additionally, three distinctive facades named Glory, Nativity, and Passion each present unique shapes designed to highlight different aspects of Christianity from different viewpoints and angles.
Gaudi understood his project would take longer to finish after his death, so he left detailed plans for its completion. To date, 70% of the basilica has been completed, and upon completion it will feature 18 towers: 12 for Apostles, four each for Evangelists and one each representing Mary and Jesus plus a central celebration spire nearly as tall as Barcelona’s Montjuic hill.
However, during the Spanish Civil War vandals broke into the church and damaged plans and models – an unfortunate setback which delayed construction for decades to come despite Francisco Franco’s long dictatorship. Today the Sagrada Familia is funded through private donations rather than government money so it can progress at its own pace; Pope Benedict XVI consecrated it as a basilica in 2010 and completion is expected by 2026, which marks 100 years since Gaudi died.
3. Our Lady of the Rocks
No matter your faith or lack thereof, most churches are simply stunning to look at. Their towering steeples, onion domes and intricate artwork can leave anyone spellbound – Gothic revival beauties as well as Art Nouveau beauties are among some of the world’s most breathtaking churches that deserve to be visited! Here is our selection of some of the world’s most stunning churches worth seeing for themselves.
Our Lady of the Rocks, situated in Kotor Bay’s spectacular scenery, is an UNESCO World Heritage Site worth seeing. The church stands on an idyllic island in the water – said to have formed over time from seamen throwing rocks into the sea as thanksgiving offerings to Mary in exchange for safe journeys home. It is truly captivating.
The interior of the basilica is also breathtakingly impressive with incredible statues, centuries-old artworks, and glittering treasures on display. Covered entirely in marble, its cavernous space spans several floors and covers a massive area – this church being dedicated to St Peter – one of Jesus’s favorite apostles – naturally drawing Catholic devotees from around the globe.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre was originally constructed to commemorate Christ’s death and burial place, making it one of the world’s premier Christian pilgrimage sites. Situated atop Golgotha Hill – where Jesus was crucified – for 1,600 years it has drawn pilgrims from around the globe who wish to follow in his footsteps through an emotional Via Dolorosa with 14 Stations of the Cross that trace his journey before his death and resurrection.
4. San Marco
Churches were traditionally at the core of religious culture in many nations and societies through history, making them not only impressive to visit but also stunningly beautiful; often boasting intricate details created over millennia and embodying aspects unique to each country’s history, faith and culture.
San Marco stands as one of the world’s most celebrated churches, its golden mosaics gleaming brightly in the sunlight. Crafted with pale marble from Syria, Egypt and Palestine sourced from these areas; while its altarpiece encrusted with more than 2,000 precious gemstones ranging from emeralds, rubies sapphires and pearls give this church its nickname: Chiesa d’Oro (Church of Gold).
The basilica at Rome stands as the spiritual heart of Catholicism and was constructed between 1506 and 1626 under Pope Julius II, with iconic artists like Raphael, Michelangelo and Bramante helping. This cavernous interior will take your breath away with centuries-old artworks and sparkling treasures on display.
St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow stands out as not only a religious landmark, but also as an exquisite work of art. Constructed during the mid-15th century to commemorate Russia’s capture of Kazan Khanate, its vivid exterior has long been one of the country’s most recognizable landmarks; while inside it features incredible icons and murals that adorn every surface; from angelic figures to four-horse chariots adorn every surface for maximum color impact! One of these colorful churches in terms of interior decor this church stands out among all others!
5. Hallgrimskirkja
Named for 17th-century poet Hallgrimur Petursson, this church stands as both a national monument and midtown landmark. Home to an enormous organ featuring over 5,200 pipes, visitors can ascend its tower for stunning views over Reykjavik and snow-capped peaks stretching into the distance – one of Iceland’s best views!
Hallgrimskirkja was designed by State Architect Gudjon Samuelsson and began construction in 1937. However, due to war delays construction ceased for over twenty years until 1948 when the crypt was finally consecrated; steeple and wings would later follow until it was finally completed in 1986.
Samuelsson was inspired by Scandinavian Modernism and wanted his church to reflect Icelandic landscape, specifically basalt after cooling. His design mirrored its mathematical symmetry; however, the interior remains more traditional with narrow windows and high pointed Gothic vaults.
The exterior of the church is clad with light-colored granite to reflect Iceland’s glacial terrain and echo Mount Kirkjufell’s silhouette. If visitors wish to reach its summit via lift service, a magnificent view awaits them of their city below.
Hallgrimskirkja is an essential stop on any trip to Iceland. This extraordinary building will leave you spellbound; no doubt one of the world’s most stunning churches! renowned choir that tours globally bringing their beautiful music. Even if you don’t consider yourself religious, visiting Hallgrimskirkja will leave an impactful mark – an unforgettable witness to art and nature at their best that you won’t soon forget!