Whether in large metropolises or small places of pilgrimage - Europe is full of magnificent churches and cathedrals that take every visitor's breath away.
For centuries, kingdoms, cities and rulers have done their best to outdo each other with the construction of imposing places of worship. Churches and cathedrals were built because of divine appearances, in thanksgiving for salvation and assistance, as a request for successful war campaigns or as a demonstration of power and wealth - in every place across the continent.
Selecting the 10 most beautiful churches in Europe is therefore anything but easy. Nevertheless, we have tried our hand and compiled a list of the top 10 churches in Europe.
Table of contents
St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy
In Vatican City in the centre of Rome towers the mighty St. Peter's Basilica, the most famous basilica in Christendom and the birthplace of the papacy. The first St. Peter's church in the world impresses with its huge dimensions and richly decorated interior. Climbing up to the dome provides a spectacular view over Rome.
To the article ...
To the photo gallery ...
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain
The spectacular Sagrada Familia in Spain's port city of Barcelona is probably the most famous unfinished church in the world. The masterpiece of world-renowned architect Antonio Gaudi is a stunning splendour of architectural artistry, attention to detail and Christian symbolism.
To the article ...
To the photo gallery ...
Nôtre Dame in Paris, France
If you continue walking along the Seine after the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, you will come to the impressive Nôtre Dame on its island in the river. With its finely crafted façade, the mighty cathedral is one of the most important Gothic buildings in France and was, among other things, the coronation site of Napoleon.
Church of San Clemente in Rome, Italy
The rather inconspicuous church of San Clemente has a surprise in store under the ornate marble floor in the richly decorated chancel: Hidden in the lower church are centuries-old frescoes that once adorned a sanctuary of the cult of Mithras.
Milan Cathedral in Milan, Italy
Milan Cathedral is the city's almost undisputed landmark. Its elaborately decorated façade of light marble houses a priceless relic in an altar room of immense proportions: a nail from the cross of Jesus. The 20m-high stained glass windows, through which sunlight bathes Milan Cathedral in soft light, are among the largest in the world.
To the article ...
To the photo gallery ...
Cathedral la Seu in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
The gigantic La Seu Cathedral is enthroned in the enchanting old town of Palma de Mallorca directly on the harbour basin. Surrounded by palm trees and other imposing buildings, it impresses with its ornate façade, which houses, among other things, the largest rose window in the world. Antonio Gaudi, builder of the famous Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, was also involved here.
To the article ...
To the photo gallery ...
Cologne Cathedral in Cologne, Germany
With its height of 157 metres, Cologne Cathedral is the third highest church in the world. It is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is the most visited sight in Germany. Cologne Cathedral can seat 20,000 people. In 1996, Cologne Cathedral was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
To the article ...
To the photo gallery ...
Trinity Church in Salzburg, Austria
Opposite Salzburg Cathedral, which is just as famous, the majestic Church of the Holy Trinity sits enthroned in the old town of Salzburg on the right-hand side of the Salzach river. The mighty domed church was the first masterpiece of the famous baroque master builder Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, who also created Schönbrunn Palace and the Karlskirche in Vienna, among others.
Liebfrauen Minster in Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg's Cathedral of Our Lady rises on the Minster Square, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the entire Old Town. One of the largest sandstone buildings in the world, the seemingly unfinished façade impresses with an incredible wealth of detail that houses precious treasures.
Borgund Stave Church, Norway
The stave church of Borgund in Norway, which looks a little like a crispy house, has managed to retain its impressive appearance over the last 800 years. It is one of the best-preserved stave churches in Scandinavia and today functions as a museum.
