Stepping into any of the world’s largest churches is like entering the pages of history, where architectural grandeur meets deep spiritual reverence.
These immense structures, often centuries old, are places of worship surrounded by marvels of engineering powered by artists. Each temple tells a remarkable story of faith, community, and the extraordinary lengths to which human creativity and dedication can go.
Basilica of St. Peter (Basilica Papale di San Pietro) – Vatican City, 226,045 sq ft
The Basilica of St. Peter, the centerpiece of the Vatican, houses some of the most revered artworks in Christian history.
This exhibition includes Michelangelo’s Pietà and his awe-inspiring dome. The church stands majestically over Saint Peter’s tomb, drawing millions of pilgrims and art lovers yearly.
Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida – Aparecida, Brazil, 193,750 sq ft
Completed in 1980, the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida is a focal point of faith in Brazil. This sanctuary is famous for its dome and the 18th-century Virgin Mary statue, which fishermen found in the Paraíba River.
It’s a primary pilgrimage site, attracting millions annually.
Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) – Milan, Italy, 125,937 sq ft
Milan Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, took nearly six centuries to complete.
Its intricate facade and the golden Madonnina atop its central spire are iconic.
Inside, it boasts stained glass windows with biblical stories and statues made by notable artists, making it a hub for spirituality and art.
Cathedral of St. John the Divine – New York, USA, 121,000 sq ft
St. John the Divine in New York is known for its striking Romanic and Gothic Revival architecture.
Construction began in 1892 but has periodically paused, leaving parts unfinished.
The cathedral has hosted important events, including memorial services for figures like Nikola Tesla and Joseph Campbell, reflecting its deep ties to New York’s history and community.
Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Sevilla) – Seville, Spain, 123,972 sq ft
Seville Cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, stands in a location previously occupied by a mosque.
It features the Giralda, an ancient minaret-turned-bell tower, and houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
The cathedral’s art collection includes works by Murillo and Goya, enriching its historical and cultural legacy.
Basilica of Our Lady of Lichen – Lichen Stary, Poland, 108,612 sq ft
In the heart of Lichen Stary, Poland, stands the majestic Basilica of Our Lady of Lichen.
This sanctuary, completed in 2004, is famous for its grandeur and the iconic painting of the Virgin Mary, which reportedly aided in miraculous healings.
Liverpool Cathedral – Liverpool, United Kingdom, 104,269 sq ft
Rising above Liverpool’s skyline, Liverpool Cathedral is one of the United Kingdom’s most prominent and visually striking.
The temple, finished in 1978 after almost 74 years of construction, has a vast Gothic arch and the UK’s largest, most tuneful church bell.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception – Washington, DC, USA, 206,332 sq ft
Washington is home to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, one of the largest Roman Catholic churches in the United States.
This architectural marvel, dedicated in 1959, shows intricate mosaics and hosts over one million visitors annually.
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels – Los Angeles, USA, 65,000 sq ft
Los Angeles’s Cathedral breaks away from traditional church designs with its modern, deconstructivist style.
The church, which replaces the earthquake-damaged St. Vibiana’s, is noted for its public plaza that hosts various cultural events.
Church of the Most Holy Trinity – Fatima, Portugal, 93,646 sq ft
The Church of the Most Holy Trinity had the mission to manage the growing influx of pilgrims drawn to this site.
In 1917, three local children reported visions of the Virgin Mary, transforming Fatima into a significant religious center.
The church’s modern, minimalist architecture incorporates a massive crucifix sculpted by Robert Schad and a high altar made from a single piece of marble, symbolizing purity and devotion.
Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls – Rome, Italy, 91,641 sq ft
Founded by Emperor Constantine in the early 4th century, people built the church after a devastating fire in 1823.
It stands over the burial site of Saint Paul, making it a key location for Christian worship.
The basilica features a striking array of columns and mosaics, including a portrait series of every pope, and its spacious interior can accommodate thousands of pilgrims.
Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe – Mexico City, Mexico, 87,887 sq ft
Raised near the hill of Tepeyac, where the Virgin Mary allegedly appeared to Saint Juan Diego in 1531, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world.
The church is designed to hold up to 10,000 people and houses the famed Tilma of Juan Diego, which features an image of the Virgin Mary, revered as miraculous by believers.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – Florence, Italy, 89,340 sq ft
The construction of Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore commenced in 1296 under the design of Arnolfo di Cambio.
In 1436, Brunelleschi’s engineered dome was completed, and it remains the largest brick dome ever constructed.
This cathedral exemplifies Renaissance architectural innovation. It contains frescoes by Vasari and Zuccari and a clock by Paolo Uccello, combining art and architectural mastery in a single monument.
Caitriona Maria is an education writer and owner of The Facts Institute. A teacher for seven years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.