15 Cathedrals Across Europe You Need To Visit
Most of us don’t think of cathedrals as places to simply “stop by.” However, walking into a European cathedral is like stepping into a living, breathing museum of art and culture. Some of them are so massive that you might find yourself craning your neck just to take in the entire view. So, let’s take a look at 15 cathedrals across Europe that are nothing short of mesmerizing.
Sagrada Familia (Barcelona, Spain)
The Sagrada Familia, designed by Antoni Gaudi, began construction in 1882 and is still not finished. The cathedral is a mix of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, with Gaudi’s unique approach to architectural design. It’s anticipated that it will be completed by 2026, marking the centenary of Gaudi’s death.
Notre-Dame De Paris (Paris, France)
A French Gothic marvel, Notre-Dame stands as evidence of medieval craftsmanship. Completed in 1260, the cathedral features stained glass windows. Plus, following the 2019 fire, restoration work began to restore its interior, and despite the damage, it remains one of the most visited places in Paris.
St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican City)
St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City, is the largest church in the world, covering an area of over 15,000 square meters. Designed by notable architects like Michelangelo and Bernini, its dome is an iconic feature visible throughout Rome.
La Cathedrale De Reims (Reims, France)
La Cathedrale de Reims, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, features remarkable stained glass windows and an intricate facade. Its most famous feature is the “Angels of Reims,” a group of exquisite statues that depict angels in elegant poses.
Duomo Di Milano (Milan, Italy)
The Duomo di Milano is Italy’s largest cathedral and took nearly six centuries to complete. Construction started in 1386, and the cathedral was not finished until 1965. Here, visitors can also see the tomb of Saint Charles Borromeo inside the cathedral.
Chartres Cathedral (Chartres, France)
Chartres Cathedral, known for its stunning 12th and 13th-century stained glass windows, is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. Completed around 1260, the cathedral’s two contrasting towers—the Romanesque tower and the Gothic spire—represent a mix of architectural styles.
La Seu Cathedral (Palma De Mallorca, Spain)
Standing proud on the island of Mallorca, La Seu Cathedral blends Gothic architecture with Mediterranean flair. Notably, the famous architect Antoni Gaudi worked on the cathedral during a restoration in the early 20th century, adding his own flair to its interior design.
St. Basil’s Cathedral (Moscow, Russia)
Built between 1555 and 1561 to honor Ivan the Terrible’s victory over the Kazan Khanate, this cathedral features brightly colored onion domes that have become iconic. St. Basil’s is now a museum and continues to be one of the most visited landmarks in Russia.
Aachen Cathedral (Aachen, Germany)
Aachen Cathedral acts as one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and was the coronation site for German kings for over 600 years. The Palatine Chapel, which Charlemagne commissioned, is the heart of the cathedral, and its octagonal shape inspired later medieval church designs.
Catedral De Sevilla (Seville, Spain)
This one on the list houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus and features an incredible amount of architectural beauty, from its impressive altar to the bell tower, La Giralda. Interestingly, the Giralda tower was originally built as a minaret and was later converted into a Christian bell tower.
Saint Mark’s Basilica (Venice, Italy)
Saint Mark’s Basilica exudes Byzantine splendor with its opulent golden mosaics and striking domes. Completed in the 11th century, it served as the symbol of Venetian wealth. Its rich blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles makes it a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of cultures.
Burgos Cathedral (Burgos, Spain)
The Catedral de Burgos is a prime example of French Gothic architecture. Its most notable features are its towering spires, delicate stained-glass windows, and impressive sculptures. Inside, visitors can admire the intricately carved choir stalls and the tomb of El Cid, Spain’s legendary hero.
Cologne Cathedral (Cologne, Germany)
This one’s construction took over 600 years, and today, it stands as a symbol of the city itself. The cathedral’s massive twin spires dominate the Cologne skyline, reaching a height of 157 meters. Its Gothic grandeur is unmatched in Europe.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Vienna, Austria)
An example of Gothic architecture, St. Stephen’s Cathedral has been Vienna’s spiritual hub since the 12th century. Its detailed roof, adorned with multicolored tiles, is iconic. Visitors often climb the 343 steps to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Basilica Of The Sacred Heart (Brussels, Belgium)
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Brussels is an impressive Art Deco church completed in 1970. It’s one of the largest churches in the world and features a massive dome that stands out in the city’s skyline. The basilica’s mix of modern and traditional architectural elements.
