Religious or not religious, most people can appreciate an incredible church when they see one.
All over the world, churches vary in design, colour and date and in one country you might find a totally different architectural style to another.
Here, we’ve collated some of the most striking churches in the world from St Petersburg to Ethiopia…
Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow
See Saint Basil’s Cathedral and you’ll instantly think of Moscow. Iconic to the city, the building is shaped as a flame of a bonfire rising into the sky.
Lalibela, Ethiopia
This region is home to 11 churches carved out of rocks that date from the 12th and 13th centuries. Each is individual but highly intricate. Today the whole area remains a pilgrimage site for Coptic Christians.
Church of the Transfiguration, Kizhi Island, Russia
Perhaps what’s most incredible about these conjoined churches is despite their metallic look, they’re made entirely of interlocking wood. The Church of the Transfiguration, built in 1714, stands 121 feet tall, while the Intercession Church, completed in 1764, is 105 feet.
Las Lajas Sanctuary, Nariño, Colombia
Looking a bit like a Disney set, Las Lajas Sanctuary in Colombia is nothing short of spectacular. Set in an area with a canyon, waterfall and river, visitors ride the cable car right up to the church and then explore the surrounding area.
St Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City
Think of 5th Avenue and you’ll think of vast flagship stores, yellow taxis and crowds of people but what about the Neo-Gothic St Patrick’s Cathedral? It easily holds its own wedged between two skyscrappers.
Church of San Andres Xecul, Guatemala
It’s not often you come across churches painted in a celebration of incredible colours, is it? The front of the Church of San Andres Xecul in Guatemala is adorned with vibrant images of Mayan and Christian imagery as well as agricultural scenes. Certainly one of a kind.
Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik, Iceland
The tallest church in Iceland, this Lutheran Parish juts 74.5 meters into the air. Started in 1945, it took 41 years to complete.
Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona, Arizona
Commissioned by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, the Arizonian sculpture was inspired by the erection of the Empire State Building in 1932 when designing this chapel. Built into the buttes, it towers magnificently over the landscape.
