How about taking a tour of the 7 most amazing cathedrals in Europe?
If you have the opportunity to tour Europe, be aware that, regardless of your religion, some of the most worthwhile sights are the cathedrals of each city, especially for the historical, artistic and architectural features of these buildings. To better understand what we are talking about, check out some of the most interesting cathedrals on the European continent:
1 - St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy
This incredible Byzantine-style church is adjacent to the Venetian Grand Canal in St. Mark's Square and began construction in 1063. Its exterior features tall arches, Roman sculptures and life-size bronze horses - replicas of the originals brought of Constantinople in 1204 and which are currently in the church museum. The interior of the basilica contains golden mosaics composing scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
2 - Cologne Cathedral, Germany
This building, the largest cathedral in northeastern Europe, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and, unfortunately, was also endangered as a World Heritage Site in 2004. During World War II, the church was hit by bombs 14 times, reaching up to even being used as a shooting range by American soldiers. Millions of tourists are drawn to the belief that the cathedral sarcophagus houses three men present at the birth of Jesus.
3 - Wawel Cathedral in Krakow, Poland
Built in the fourteenth century and kept virtually unchanged to this day, this church is famous for having as priest and archbishop what would later become Pope John Paul II. The interior of the cathedral contains 18 chapels filled with religious artwork and some tombs. The golden lady's chapel contains a bell 350 years older than London's Big Ben and only fires on special occasions.
4 - Stephansdom Cathedral, Vienna, Austria
This beautiful church was built in the twelfth century, but has undergone many renovation processes due to fires suffered during some battles. The Gothic style of the building blends perfectly with the diamond-colored roof. Tourists often climb the 343 steps to the top of the church's largest tower and give a great view of the entire city. The composer Mozart had his wedding and funeral ceremonies held at the cathedral.
5 - Notre Dame, Paris
If you are visiting the romantic French capital, be sure to visit this church that, with its mix of styles, attracts tourists from all over the world. The building was built between 1163 and 1345. Two historic moments undermined the structure of the church, the first during the French Revolution in 1793, when many sculptures were broken and jewelry stolen, and the second in 1871, when a popular uprising caused a fire in part of the building; Since then, the cathedral has undergone constant restoration.
6 - Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
This huge structure is still under construction - started in 1882 - and is expected to be completed by 2026. The main architect considered is the famous Antoni Gaudí and, even after his death, his style was maintained by the other architects. involved in the project. The building has 18 towers with bells symbolizing Jesus, Mary, the 4 evangelists and the 12 apostles. The church attracts visitors of more than 2 million people a year, and visiting the towers ensures a beautiful view of the city of Barcelona.
7 - Roskilde Cathedral, in Denmark
Also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the building was built between the 12th and 13th centuries, respecting Gothic standards, but for the first time using only bricks in its construction. The Danish royal family has been buried in this building since the 15th century.
Recommended
