Europe is home to some of the most stunning and iconic churches in the world. These architectural marvels have stood the test of time, weathering wars, natural disasters, and the passage of time. For religious and non-religious travelers alike, visiting these famous churches is an unforgettable experience. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 famous churches in Europe you must visit.
Famous Churches in Europe
Notre Dame, Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as the Notre-Dame Cathedral or simply Notre-Dame, is one of the most famous churches in all of France, if not the world. This iconic cathedral is located in the heart of Paris, on the Île de la Cité, and has been a symbol of French culture and history for centuries.
Construction on Notre-Dame began in 1163, and it was completed almost 200 years later, in 1350. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its soaring arches, flying buttresses, and intricate stonework. In particular, the facade of Notre-Dame is a stunning example of Gothic design, with its twin towers rising up to 226 feet above the square in front of the cathedral.
One of the most striking features of Notre-Dame is its stained glass windows. These windows date back to the 13th century, and they are considered some of the finest examples of medieval stained glass art in the world. The rose window on the west facade of the cathedral is particularly famous, with its intricate design and rich colors.
Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire the many works of art and religious relics that are housed there. One of the most famous of these is the Crown of Thorns, which was believed to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. Other notable features of the interior include the massive organ, which dates back to the 18th century, and the intricately carved choir stalls.
Unfortunately, Notre-Dame suffered a devastating fire in April 2019, which caused significant damage to the cathedral’s roof and spire. However, restoration efforts are underway, and plans are being made to restore the cathedral to its former glory.
Despite the damage caused by the fire, Notre-Dame remains a beloved symbol of French culture and history. It has inspired countless artists, writers, and musicians over the years, and its beauty and grandeur continue to awe visitors from around the world.
St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City, is one of the most famous and majestic churches in the world. It is considered to be the center of the Catholic Church and one of the holiest sites for Christians. The basilica was built on the site where St. Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples and the first pope, was buried.
One of the most striking features of St. Peter’s Basilica is its massive dome, which rises to a height of over 450 feet. The dome was designed by Michelangelo, who also contributed to the design of the church’s interior. Inside the basilica, visitors are greeted with an awe-inspiring sight – a vast nave, flanked by marble columns and adorned with ornate frescoes, sculptures, and mosaics.
One of the most famous features of St. Peter’s Basilica is the Pietà sculpture, created by Michelangelo in the early 16th century. The sculpture depicts the body of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion, being held by his mother Mary. The beauty and emotion of the sculpture make it one of the most beloved works of art in the world.
Another famous feature of the basilica is the Papal Altar, located directly above the tomb of St. Peter. This altar is used by the Pope during special Masses and ceremonies, and is made of bronze and gold. The baldacchino, a large ornamental canopy over the altar, was designed by Bernini and is also a masterpiece of Baroque art.
Visitors to St. Peter’s Basilica can also see the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, the Chapel of the Choir, and the Chapel of the Holy Spirit. Each chapel is decorated with beautiful artwork and intricate details, making them a wonder to behold.
II Duomo, Florence, Italy
The II Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of the most famous churches in Florence, Italy. Its construction began in 1296 under the direction of Arnolfo di Cambio, but it was not until 1436 that the dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, was completed.
The cathedral’s exterior is made of white and green marble, with intricate details and sculptures adorning the façade. The bell tower, or campanile, adjacent to the cathedral was also designed by Giotto and completed in 1359. It is adorned with colorful marble panels and statues, and offers a stunning view of the city from its top.
Inside the cathedral, visitors can admire several notable works of art, including the stained glass windows, the frescoes in the dome by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari, and the high altar with its bronze reliefs by Luca della Robbia. The cathedral also houses the tomb of Brunelleschi himself, as well as the tombs of other important figures in Florentine history.
Another major attraction of the II Duomo is the Baptistery of San Giovanni, located across from the cathedral. This octagonal building was constructed in the 11th century and features bronze doors that depict scenes from the Old Testament and New Testament.
Saint Basil’s Church, Moscow, Russia
St. Basil’s Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed or simply Saint Basil’s Church, is one of Moscow’s most famous landmarks and an iconic symbol of Russia. Located in Red Square, this colorful and unique church is instantly recognizable with its bold onion-shaped domes and intricate patterns.
It was built between 1555 and 1561 under the orders of Ivan IV (also known as Ivan the Terrible), who wished to commemorate his military victories over the Tatars and express his gratitude to God. The cathedral was constructed on the site of an earlier church that had been dedicated to the Intercession of the Virgin Mary, which is why it is sometimes also called the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat.
The architecture of St. Basil’s Cathedral is quite distinctive, with nine multi-colored onion domes arranged in a circle around a central tower. Each dome is topped with a unique shape and design, ranging from rounded to pointed, and each dome was originally painted a different color. The colorful patterns and designs on the façade of the cathedral are equally impressive, featuring geometric shapes, floral motifs, and other decorative elements.
Inside, the cathedral is divided into several small chapels, each dedicated to a different saint or religious figure. The chapels are connected by narrow corridors and staircases, creating a maze-like interior that adds to the sense of mystery and wonder surrounding the church.
Despite its fame and popularity, St. Basil’s Cathedral has faced many challenges throughout its history. During the reign of Ivan the Terrible, the architect who designed the cathedral was blinded so that he could never again create such a masterpiece. In the 17th century, the cathedral was damaged by fire and underwent extensive renovations. It was also threatened with demolition during the Soviet era, when many churches and other religious buildings were destroyed or repurposed.
Today, St. Basil’s Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its beauty and learn about its history. It remains an important symbol of Russian culture and heritage, as well as a testament to the enduring power of faith and creativity.
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
The Sagrada Familia is an iconic landmark and famous church located in the city of Barcelona, Spain. The church is renowned for its unique blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles and is considered to be one of the most impressive architectural feats of the 20th century.
Construction on the Sagrada Familia began in 1882, under the direction of architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, but it was later taken over by Antoni Gaudi in 1883. Gaudi dedicated his life to the construction of the church, spending more than 40 years working on it until his untimely death in 1926.
One of the most striking features of the Sagrada Familia is its towering spires, which rise up to a height of 170 meters. The church has a total of 18 towers, each representing a different religious figure or event, such as the Virgin Mary or the four evangelists. The tallest tower, which represents Jesus Christ, is still under construction and is expected to reach a height of 172.5 meters when completed.
The interior of the Sagrada Familia is equally stunning, with colorful stained glass windows that create a kaleidoscope of light inside the church. The nave is designed to resemble a forest, with towering columns that branch out like trees and support the roof of the church. The ceiling of the nave is also adorned with intricate carvings, depicting scenes from the Bible.
Despite being under construction for more than 100 years, the Sagrada Familia continues to draw visitors from around the world. It is estimated that more than 3 million people visit the church each year, making it one of the top tourist attractions in Barcelona.
In recent years, the completion of the Sagrada Familia has become a major priority for the city of Barcelona, and efforts are underway to finish the construction of the church by 2026, which marks the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death. Once completed, the Sagrada Familia will stand as a testament to Gaudi’s vision and creativity, and a symbol of the enduring spirit of the city of Barcelona.
Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany
Cologne Cathedral, also known as the Kölner Dom in German, is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in all of Germany. It is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and its towering spires and intricate façade make it one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. However, the cathedral is much more than just a pretty sight to behold – it is also home to a number of important churches that are worth exploring.
One of the most famous churches within the Cologne Cathedral complex is the Chapel of the Three Kings. This church is dedicated to the wise men who brought gifts to the baby Jesus, and it is said to house their gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The chapel is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows that depict the story of the Nativity, and visitors can also see a number of ancient relics and artifacts on display.
Another important church within the cathedral is the Church of St. Peter. This church dates back to the 10th century, and it is one of the oldest structures within the complex. The church is filled with historic artwork and altarpieces, including a beautiful triptych painted by the Flemish artist Stefan Lochner.
The Church of Our Lady, or Liebfrauenkirche, is another popular site within the Cathedral. This church was built in the 14th century, and it is known for its striking blue ceilings and intricate stone carvings. Visitors can also see a variety of religious artifacts and sculptures within the church, including a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus.
Finally, the Cloister Church is another must-see destination within the Cologne Cathedral complex. This church was originally built as a monastic cloister in the 13th century, and it features beautiful vaulted ceilings and an ornate Gothic altar. Visitors can also see a number of ancient tombs and gravestones within the church, including the tomb of Archbishop Engelbert II, who was assassinated in 1225.
Saint Mark’s Basilica, Venice, Italy
Saint Mark’s Basilica, located in the heart of Venice, Italy, is one of the most famous and iconic churches in the world. Built in the 9th century to house the remains of Saint Mark, the evangelist and patron saint of the city, this stunning basilica is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and an enduring symbol of Venetian history and culture.
One of the most striking features of Saint Mark’s Basilica is its facade, which is adorned with intricate marble carvings, ornate mosaics, and beautiful sculptures. The facade is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct style and decoration. The lower section features Romanesque arches and columns, while the middle section is filled with Byzantine-style mosaics that depict scenes from the life of Christ and other biblical figures. The upper section is topped by five domes, which are decorated with mosaics depicting the Virgin Mary, angels, and saints.
Inside the basilica, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking display of opulence and grandeur. The interior is filled with dazzling mosaics, gold leaf, and precious stones, all of which come together to create a sense of awe and reverence. One of the most famous features of the interior is the Pala d’Oro, a magnificent altar screen that is covered with more than 2,000 gems and pearls and dates back to the 10th century.
Another notable feature of Saint Mark’s Basilica is its four bronze horses, which are believed to have been looted from Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade in the 13th century. These horses are now displayed on the terrace above the entrance to the basilica, where they serve as a powerful symbol of Venice’s dominance over the Mediterranean world.
Westminster Abbey, London, UK
Westminster Abbey is one of the most famous and iconic churches located in London, UK. It has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years, and it is widely recognized as one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in the city.
The church itself is an impressive example of Gothic architecture, with soaring arches, intricate stonework, and stunning stained glass windows. It is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Europe and attracts millions of visitors each year.
One of the most famous features of Westminster Abbey is the Poets’ Corner, which is home to memorials for some of the greatest literary figures in English history, including William Shakespeare, Geoffrey Chaucer, and Charles Dickens. The area is also home to a number of other notable graves and memorials, including those of Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Winston Churchill.
Another famous feature of Westminster Abbey is the Coronation Chair, which has been used in every coronation ceremony since 1308. The chair is made from oak and adorned with carvings and inscriptions, and it is considered one of the most important pieces of furniture in British history.
Other notable features of Westminster Abbey include the Chapter House, which was built in the 13th century and features stunning decorative tilework and a beautifully painted ceiling, and the Lady Chapel, which was added to the church in the 14th century and is home to a number of beautiful stained glass windows.
HallgrÍmskirkja, ReykjavÍk, Iceland
Hallgrimskirkja is a Lutheran parish church located in the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital. It is one of the most prominent landmarks and tourist attractions in the city. The church’s unique architecture and stunning views make it a must-see destination for visitors to Reykjavik.
The construction of Hallgrimskirkja began in 1945 and took over 40 years to complete. The church was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, an Icelandic architect who drew inspiration from the country’s geology and landscape. The church’s design is said to resemble the basalt columns found throughout Iceland’s natural environment. The church’s tower is the tallest structure in Reykjavik, standing at 73 meters (240 feet) tall.
One of the most notable features of Hallgrimskirkja is its massive pipe organ, which was built by the German organ builder Johannes Klais. The organ has 5275 pipes and weighs around 25 tons, making it one of the largest instruments in Europe. The organ’s beautiful sound fills the church during services and concerts, making for an unforgettable experience.
The church’s interior is simple yet elegant, with white walls and minimal decoration. The spacious nave can accommodate up to 1200 people, making it the largest church in Iceland. The altar is made of white marble and features a crucifix by the sculptor Einar Jónsson. The stained glass windows are also worth noting, as they were designed by the Icelandic artist Gerður Helgadóttir and depict scenes from the Bible and Icelandic folklore.
Visitors to Hallgrimskirkja can take an elevator to the top of the tower for stunning panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, over 100 kilometers away. The tower also houses a small museum dedicated to the church’s history and architecture.
Hagia Sophia Church, Istanbul, Turkey
Hagia Sophia Church is an iconic and world-renowned religious monument located in Istanbul, Turkey. The church has a rich history that spans over 1,500 years and has undergone several transformations over time.
Originally built as a Christian church in the 6th century, Hagia Sophia was later converted into a mosque, and finally into a museum in the 20th century. Despite these changes, the church remains one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul and attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year.
One of the most striking features of Hagia Sophia is its architectural design. The church is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, featuring a large central dome that appears to float above the building’s interior. The dome is supported by four massive piers, which help distribute the weight of the structure evenly.
The church also features intricate mosaics and frescoes throughout its interior, which depict scenes from Christian theology and history. These artworks are some of the oldest surviving examples of Byzantine art and provide a glimpse into the cultural and artistic achievements of the era.
Perhaps the most significant historical event associated with Hagia Sophia is the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. After capturing the city, the Ottomans converted the church into a mosque and added several Islamic features to the building, including minarets and a mihrab.
In 1935, Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, transformed Hagia Sophia into a museum as part of his efforts to secularize the country. This decision allowed people of all faiths to visit the monument and appreciate its cultural and historical significance.
Despite its status as a museum, there has been ongoing debate about the future of Hagia Sophia, with some advocating for it to be returned to its previous use as a mosque. In 2020, the Turkish government controversially decided to convert the building back into a mosque.
Conclusion
Visiting these famous churches in Europe is not only a chance to marvel at some of the most stunning architecture in the world, but also an opportunity to connect with history and culture. Whether you’re religious or not, these churches should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
