Churches are definitely unique forms of architecture, from their incredible exteriors to the artwork that’s found throughout their interiors, and even right down to their fixed seating. But certain churches throughout the world can be considered the most interesting.
For those who love to visit churches, take photographs, and explore the inside, the following list will help you narrow down your options to four of the most interesting churches on the planet.
- Basilica Catedral Nuestra Senora de la Altagracia
The Basilica Catedral Nuestra Senora de la Altagracia is located in the Dominican Republic and is a Roman Catholic cathedral and basilica that was built in 1970. This church was even visited by Pope John Paul II back in 1992 while he was in the Dominican Republic, and it also attracts tourists from around the world who are in the area. Its exterior architecture is definitely unique, which is one of the reasons why so many people go there to take photos of it.
- Las Lajas Sanctuary
Another interesting church is Las Lajas Sanctuary, which is found in Colombia inside the Guáitara River’s canyon. It was constructed at 100 meters high, and was a pilgrimage site after Christianity’s Virgin Mary appeared to a woman and her daughter, who was deaf and mute, in the 18th century when they were caught in a violent storm. It was constructed in a Gothic style between 1916 and 1949, and a bridge is what connects the church to the other side of the canyon.
- Notre Dame du Haut Chapel
Found in eastern France near Ronchamp, Notre Dame du Haut chapel is also referred to as Our Lady of the Summit. It became a pilgrimage site in the 19th century, but by the 20th century, it had suffered a lot of serious damage from a fire and a bombing that took place during the liberation in 1944. The church’s architect, Le Corbusier, designed a new plan for it and the new building opened in 1955. The roof was inspired by the shell of a crab, and it features a modern design along with original walls that are encased in concrete, giving it plenty of history as well. Visitors also look for the 17th century Virgin Mary statue that was preserved over time.
- Church of St. George
The Church of St. George is located in Ethiopia, and it is one of a total of 11 monolithic (created from just one piece of rock) churches in the central part of the country. King Lalibela wanted to make a New Jerusalem in the 12th century after Christian pilgrimages to the Middle East became difficult as a result of the Muslim conquests. Therefore, this site became an integral place to worship for Coptic Christians. The appearance and construction of the site alone is enough to attract worshippers and tourists alike.
These are just a few of the many amazing churches that are found all over the world. It is no wonder that, thanks to their history and architecture, they are such popular tourist destinations.
