Churches are considered to be one of the most beautiful worshipping places. The architecture and composition of churches are magnificent. There are almost 37 million churches around the world, out these 37 million there few such churches which world famous and an icon of architecture and divinity. So do you want to know which these top 6 world famous churches? Keep reading ahead.
# CHURCH OF NATIVITY, BETHLEHEMLocated in Bethlehem, Palestine church of nativity is one the holiest place in the world. Jesus Christ was born at this place and hence this church is world famous. Saint Helena started the first basilica at this place in 327 c. Fire destroyed the church in the 6th century. It was restored and preserved later in 527 c. This church is considered to be prominent sites in Christianity. UNESCO listed it under the world heritage sites and also is considered to be the site in danger. For this, the Palestine government has launched several missions and is restoring the church considering it a national treasure. Church of Nativity is the most visited sites in Palestine. Also, it is one of the most visited churches in the world.
# SAGRADA FAMILIA, BARCELONALocated in Barcelona, Spain, Sagrada Familia is the largest unfinished Roman Catholic Church in the world. Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi designed this church in 1852. It has remained unfinished since then due to the complicated style of architecture, lack of technology then and interruptions like Spanish civil war. It is likely to be completed in 2026 which would be a century after the architecture’s death. This church is an epitome of architecture worldwide and has magnificent interiors as well as exterior features. These spectacular features of this church have made it famous all over the world.Pope Benedict XVI declared this church as a minor basilica in 2010. Sagrada Familia is one of the sights of architect Antoni Gaudi to be registered as world heritage site.
# ST PETERS BASILICA, VATICAN CITYLocated at the historic view of Rome, this church is built on Vatican hill across Tiber River. It is one the most famous and renowned churches in the world. Designed by Michelangelo, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Raphael, this church is built in Renaissance style of architecture during Italian renaissance. St Peter’s holds a special place in Christianity and it is a holy place for Christians. This church is the burial place of St Peter, one of the apostles of Jesus and the first pope. St Peter’s Basilica holds special worships (liturgies) conducted by the pope and has visitors about 11,000,000 per year. This church is registered as a world heritage site by UNESCO.
# HAGIA SOPHIA, TURKEYHagia Sophia constructed in 537 AD, was a Greek Orthodox cathedral. It served as an eastern orthodox cathedral and seat of patriarch Constantinople. Byzantine Emperor Justinian I ordered to build this church in order to dedicate it to the wisdom of God. Later, converted into a mosque by Ottoman rulers and presently is a museum. This church is one of the most famous churches in the world and is said to have “changed the history”. The designers Isidore of MiletusAnthemius of Tralles designed this church in a unique dome shape which later served as an inspiration for ottoman mosques.
# GREGETI TRINITY, GEORGIAGregeti trinity church is famous for its wonderful location and is one the most beautiful churches in the world. Located on the right bank of the river Chkheri on mouth Kazbek, Georgia at an altitude of 2170 meters above the sea level. The church is the perfect treat to watch for the hikers and mountaineers. One can reach this place in three hours of climbing the mountain or by a jeep ride of 30 minutes. Built in the 14th century, this church has played an important role in a Soviet-era in protecting the relics.However, the jaw-dropping view from this church is a must watch and one of its kind.
# ST. SOPHIA CATHEDRAL, UKRAINEThis is an excellent architectural monument located in Kiev, Ukraine. Designed by architect Octaviano Mancini, this cathedral is considered to one of the most beautiful churches in the world. The name of this cathedral comes from Greek word ‘Sophia’ which means wisdom. This monument is one of the most famous and oldest churches in Ukraine and is the first ever world heritage site of the country. Built in 11th century by Prince Yaroslav the wise, this cathedral has been a social and political centre of Kiev. Also Coincidentally it became the resting of prince.