Even the most avid travelers have a tendency to overlook churches, thinking that they are not the most amusing and appealing attractions. To a lot of them, all churches look practically the same.
Although that’s relatively understandable, (you know how they say, to each their own, right?) that’s actually pretty far from the truth. In fact, each church has something special and unique, and that’s especially the case in Europe.
Namely, this continent is loaded with churches that are breathtakingly beautiful. If you share this opinion and would like to see what this part of the world has to offer, then check out our list below.
The Most Mesmerizing Churches In Europe
St. Peter’s Basilica As A Must
This is for sure a must-visit attraction due to its beauty and storied history. It is situated in the heart of Vatican City, and it is the final resting place of Peter the Apostle. Besides that, it is considered the holiest church in the world, which is why this is a place you mustn’t overlook.
Now, if you’re on your way to visit the Vatican, then you should definitely opt for a tour that will allow you to properly investigate this Basilica. It’s known as the Vatican Scavi tour, and it will take you down to the lowest levels of this church. In addition, this tour goes below the “grotto” to a place widely known as the “necropolis”.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Located in London, this church can be defined as one of the most important churches in the Church of England. Besides being the highest point in the capital, it’s also the seat of the Bishop.
Therefore, if you decide to go to London, you should definitely include this attraction in your itinerary. Its huge dome is one of the tallest domes in the universe, and its interior is lavishly appointed.
If you want to see how it looks on the inside, then you will have to pay a small fee, which is definitely worth every penny because you will get the opportunity to enjoy marvelous views of England’s capital.
Adding More Suggestions That Are Worth Your Time
Magnificent Saint Sava Temple
If you’re looking to visit one of the most vibrant and historical cities in Southeastern Europe, Belgrade (the capital of Serbia), then Saint Sava Temple mustn’t be ignored. It is the heart of this city and the biggest Orthodox church in the Balkans and the largest Orthodox church in this country.
Situated in one of the most beautiful and eminent parts of the city, Vracar municipality, this church is not only an integral part of Serbian history, but it is also the pillar of the Serbian faith.
Sagrada Familia
This beautiful church is surely one of the most popular buildings in the world. It was designed by the talented and renowned Antoni Gaudi. The construction has begun in 1882 and surprisingly, it isn’t completed yet.
But still, it didn’t stop Sagrada Familia from “entering” the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. There’s no denying that this breathtaking attraction is spectacular both inside and outside. That’s one of the reasons why it is one of the most iconic places in Europe.
Enchanting Shipka Memorial Church
Constructed in 1885, this church (located in Bulgaria) has thrilling and very old architecture. Its red, prominent exterior with golden decorations isn’t something you get to see very often. If you decide to pay a visit to the Shipka Memorial Church, then make sure to do it when the sun is setting down because it will take this whole experience up a notch.
The interior of this church is out-of-this-world, with religious illustrations decorating the ceilings and the walls.
Hallgrimskirkja
This one is certainly the most popular church in Reykjavik (the capital of Iceland). If you’ve ever explored this city online, then you most likely know how Hallgrimskirkja looks on the inside. Now, the tower is not only a place of practice, but it also serves as an observation deck where you get to enjoy the breathtaking views.
If you decide to visit it, then you will be glad to know that it’s free of charge to enter it, however, you will have to pay some cash to visit the tower.
St. Basil’s Cathedral
Situated in the Red Square in Moscow (Russia), this church was completed in 1560 by Ivan the Terrible. Even though it’s converted into a museum, it still holds one service each year, on the Day of Intercession.
As stated in the beginning, all churches are special and deserve your attention because every single one of them comes with an interesting story and historical background, just like the ones we mentioned here.