10 Most Beautiful Cathedrals in the World

Are you a history buff or an architecture enthusiast looking to explore some of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be taking a tour of ten of the most famous cathedrals around the globe, each with its own unique history and breathtaking features. Get ready to be awestruck by the beauty of these Gothic wonders!

10 – Hagia Sophia Cathedral (Istanbul, Turkey)

Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture and is one of the most significant religious landmarks in the world. Originally built as a church in the 6th century, the building has since served as a mosque and is now a museum.
Inside, visitors can explore the building’s impressive interior, which features beautiful mosaics and frescoes. The building also houses several notable works of art, including the famous Deesis mosaic, which depicts Jesus Christ flanked by the Virgin Mary and John the Baptist.

09 – Santiago de Compostela (Galicia, Spain)

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, located in the northwest region of Galicia in Spain, is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. Known as the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, the cathedral has been attracting visitors for centuries. The cathedral’s stunning Baroque façade and Romanesque architecture make it a true masterpiece of Gothic art.

The cathedral’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with a stunning altar, a beautiful choir screen, and several chapels. Visitors can also explore the cathedral’s museum, which is home to a priceless collection of religious artifacts and artwork. One of the most famous pieces in the museum is the Botafumeiro, a giant incense burner that is swung back and forth during important religious ceremonies.

08 – Winchester Cathedral (Winchester, England)

Located in the historic city of Winchester in England, Winchester Cathedral is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. Built in the Gothic style, the cathedral’s impressive architecture and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. The cathedral’s most famous feature is its stunning nave, which is the longest in Europe.

Visitors to Winchester Cathedral can explore the cathedral’s many treasures, including its beautiful stained glass windows, impressive collection of sculptures and carvings, and fascinating historical artifacts. The cathedral is also home to several notable paintings, including works by famous artists like Anthony Van Dyck and Peter Paul Rubens.

07 – Saint Basil’s Cathedral (Moscow, Russia)

St. Basil’s Cathedral, located in Red Square in Moscow, Russia, is a unique and stunning example of Russian Orthodox architecture. The cathedral was built in the 16th century to commemorate Ivan the Terrible’s conquest of the Kazan Khanate. Its colorful domes and intricate patterns make it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Russia specifically.
Inside, visitors can explore several chapels, each with its own unique paintings and decorations. The cathedral is also home to several priceless religious artifacts, including an icon believed to have miraculous powers.

06 – Washington National Cathedral (Washington D.C., US)

By Washington_National_Cathedral_in_Washington,_D.C..jpg: AgnosticPreachersKidderivative work: MathKnight [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
This elegant, Neo-Gothic structure is the sixth largest cathedral in the world and the second largest one in the United States. It is an important tourist attraction in the capital, with a record of more than 400.000 visitors in 2009. The cathedral is the seat of both the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, Katharine Jefferts Schori, and the Bishop of the Diocese of Washington, Mariann Edgar Budde.

05 – Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Chartes (Chartes, France)

By PMRMaeyaert (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
This medieval cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture and is a UNESCO world heritage site. The cathedral is in an exceptional state of preservation. The majority of the original stained glass windows survive intact, while the architecture has seen only minor changes since the early 13th century.

04 – Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence, Italy)

The cathedral’s most famous feature is its magnificent dome, which was designed by the legendary architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Visitors to Santa Maria del Fiore can explore the cathedral’s many treasures, including its stunning frescoes, beautiful stained glass windows, and impressive collection of sculptures and carvings. The cathedral is also home to several notable paintings, including works by famous artists like Paolo Uccello and Andrea del Castagno.

Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or history, Santa Maria del Fiore is a must-visit destination. Don’t miss the chance to explore this stunning example of Gothic architecture and discover the rich history and culture of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.

03 – Sagrada Familia ( Barcelona, Spain)

The Sagrada Familia, located in Barcelona, Spain, is a unique and breathtaking cathedral that is still under construction. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, the cathedral’s distinctive towers and spires, along with its ornate sculptures and stained glass windows, make it one of the most visited landmarks in Spain.
They began construction on the cathedral in 1882, and to this day, they continue implementing many of Gaudi’s original designs in the construction process. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s interior, which includes several chapels and  significantly impressive sculptures.

02 – St. Paul’s Cathedral (London, England)

St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in the heart of London, is one of the most iconic and significantly recognizable cathedrals in the world. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the late 17th century, the cathedral’s stunning dome is one of the largest in the world and has become a symbol of London’s skyline.

Visitors to St. Paul’s Cathedral can explore the cathedral’s beautiful interior, which includes several chapels, a choir screen, and the famous Whispering Gallery. The cathedral is also home to several notable works of art, including paintings by famous artists like Joshua Reynolds and John Constable. The cathedral’s impressive collection of stained glass windows is also a must-see, with many of the windows dating back to the 19th century.

01 – Notre Dame de Paris (Paris, France)

Notre-Dame de Paris, located on the Île de la Cité in Paris, France, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s construction began in 1163, and it took over two centuries to complete. One of its most impressive features is its intricate façade, which features hundreds of detailed sculptures depicting scenes from the Bible. Following the devastating fire in 2019, the cathedral’s beautiful rose windows were carefully restored, and they remain one of its most notable features.
Notre-Dame de Paris has played a significant role in French history, hosting coronations, royal weddings, and funerals of notable figures throughout the centuries. It has also inspired many works of art, including Victor Hugo’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.” Today, visitors can explore the cathedral’s stunning interior, which includes a beautiful organ and several chapels.
In conclusion, these ten famous cathedrals from around the world are a testament to the incredible skill and artistry of their builders and architects. Each cathedral has its own unique history and features that make it worth visiting. Whether you’re interested in Gothic architecture, religious history, or simply appreciate beautiful works of art, these cathedrals are sure to leave you breathless. So why not plan a trip to explore them all?