5 of Europe’s most beautiful cathedrals you must see

There are many incredibly beautiful religious buildings throughout Europe. Many cathedrals are known to almost everyone, and some are only discovered when visiting a particular country. Notre Dame de Paris, for instance, is well known to many. But there are many other places that are just as noteworthy.

Notre-Dame-de-Nice Basilica, France

The Basilica is the largest church in the French city of Nice. It was erected in 1864. The church is often referred to as a small replica of Paris’ Notre-Dame-de-Paris.

The building is done in white and the decoration is made of gold. The style is neo-Gothic. The church has 2 towers with a square shape. The height of each tower is 65 meters. There are also lancet arches and a big rose-shaped window. The acoustics inside are excellent, and the stained-glass windows are of incredible beauty.

St. Peter’s Cathedral, Italy

St. Peter’s Cathedral is located in the central square of the Vatican City. It is not only the most sought after religious site in the country but also an iconic landmark which attracts tourists from all over the world. The building is particularly popular as it is often featured in well-known films and TV series.

The Cathedral is characterised by its incredible size. It is 186 metres long, reaches a height of 45 metres in the centre and 119 metres where there is a dome. The exterior is absolutely equal to the interior. Inside you can see many exquisite elements which are literally mesmerizing.

Cologne Cathedral, Germany

This Gothic style cathedral will captivate even those who are not particularly interested in architecture at first sight. It is 157 meters high. A symbol of German Cologne, it is formally known as the Cathedral of St. Peter and the Virgin Mary.

Inside is the Cathedral of the Archbishop of Cologne, which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1996. Today, the structure plays both a religious and tourist role. Apart from the incredible exterior design, the inside of the cathedral fascinates with beauty. It features the Golden Sarcophagus, the relics of the three Magi and much more.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Austria

The site was once home to a Romanesque basilica. It was erected in 1147. However, it was severely damaged during the struggle against the Ottomans in 1683. It was also negatively affected by the Second World War, during which it was again partially destroyed. It was not fully restored until 1950.

Today, the cathedral features the tombstones of Emperor Frederick III as well as Prince Eugene of Savoy. There is also a pulpit by Anton Pilgram. The cathedral’s northern tower is equipped with a bell named Pummerin.

Barcelona Cathedral, Spain

The religious structure is also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. You can find it by walking into the city’s famous Gothic Quarter. Prior to its creation, a Romanesque church functioned in this part of Barcelona, along with a mosque and a Roman basilica. Then came the cathedral, designed by Bartolomé Ordóñez.

The splendid facade of the cathedral catches the eye. But once inside, one is blown away by the incredible beauty of the decoration. The vaulted Gothic gallery is a must-see. Its entrance can be found in the Carrer del Bistre.