The 10 Most Amazing Churches in the World

Guys, what does going to Church mean to you? For some, it’s about finding salvation. For others, it’s about finding the most holy way to recover from a Saturday night of partying. As a kid growing up Catholic, it provided me with an opportunity to dream about those delicious donuts that were served in the church basement following Mass. But ignoring the spiritual (and tasty fried dough) side of things, some of the world’s most magnificent churches can be pretty awe-inspiring even if you don’t subscribe to any particular Faith. With that in mind, here are ten churches to put on your bucket list.

10. Sagrada Familia
This UNESCO Heritage Site located in Barcelona began construction in 1882 and guess what? It still isn’t complete and who knows if it ever will be. It’s huge size and the way in which it was designed means is in constant need of renovation. As a personal note, this writer has been to Barcelona twice and still hasn’t visited this church because it’s actually a little ways off from the center. A lazy excuse, I know.

9. St. Paul’s Cathedral
Built in the 17th century and located at the highest point in London (thanks to the hill it was built upon), it is the seat of the Bishop of the Church of England. Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her 80th and 90th birthdays there, so it also has that going for it. Keep in mind that it costs £18 (around $24) to enter, although regular worshipers can enter for free. So make sure to say, “Oh! But of course I’m a worshiper, chap! Isn’t it obvious from my fake British accent?”

8. Westminster Abbey
Gang, this place is dope. (I have always wanted to write an article in which I described a church as “dope” and my dream just came true). It was built in the 10th century and is one of the most iconic examples of Gothic architecture. It’s also serves as kind of a cool indoor cemetery as well, as Darwin, Churchill and a whole lot of notable Brits in history are buried here. And if you care to know, Prince William married Kate here.

7. Church of the Nativity
This basilica, where God’s Son Himself was said to have been born, is located Palestinian-controlled Bethlehem. Due to the ongoing conflict in the region, it’s not regarded as the safest tourist destination. But if you believe in divine protection, by all means book that flight to the West Bank!