There are many beautiful churches throughout Europe, each with its own religious and architectural significance. From the smallest chapel to the largest cathedral, visitors will be inspired by the artistry of these sacred buildings. The following is a small selection of well-known sites.

Notre Dame Cathedral, in Paris, France, has been the setting for literature and movies for generations. The gothic-style church is Roman Catholic and building started in 1163; construction continued into the early 14th century.  Some of the most beautiful features include the three rose windows, each a huge circular shape, with smaller rectangular stained glass panels underneath. The exquisite and intricately designed stained glass depicts scenes from the Old and New Testament and appears to float within darker stone interiors. The west facade of the building is a magnificent design with its geometric elements, each shape symbolizing an aspect of God’s plan.

Building began in 1882 on the Roman Catholic Church of La Sagrada Familia, in Barcelona, Spain, and was designed by the Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí. The work on the church continues today and completion of this complex project is planned within the next 30 years. La Sagrada Familia is known for its unique “tree structure” design, with columns imitating trees branching upward. The church entrance bears the words “What is Truth?” carved in stone. Nature motifs and religious symbolism decorate the lovely nativity facade, and when viewed from the east, the facade has a grotto-like effect, with beautiful turquoise tinted stained glass windows.

St. Peter’s Basilica-one of the largest churches in the world-is located within the Vatican City, in Rome, Italy, and is believed to be the site of Saint Peter’s tomb. The current basilica dates back to 1506. Works of the great artists can be seen at St. Peter’s Basilica, such as Michelangelo’s master design skills evident in the church’s remarkable dome. Exceptional sculpture like Bernini’s bronze Four Doctors of the Church, and Michelangelo’s powerful and moving Pieta are unforgettable examples of beautiful religious iconography.

Cologne Cathedral, located in Cologne, Germany, is known for its gothic architecture; work on the structure was begun in 1248 and took 600 years to complete. With its vast facade and towering twin spires (the second tallest in the world) the church is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. One of the most awe-inspiring features of Cologne Cathedral is its dramatic height, sublimely emphasized in its interior, with its narrow vertical arches and seemingly unending columns. The design draws the eyes upward, and the vivid stained glass windows focus on the spiritual aspect of the church.

Visitors can learn much about local history and how painters, sculptures, and architects dedicated their lives to creating magnificent houses of worship. Viewing the artwork and craftsmanship of these churches is a truly uplifting experience.