Though the modern age has greatly changed the world, many landmarks of medieval beauty remain. Castles and cathedrals, monasteries and fortresses, and even the foundational roads and buildings in some cities reflect life centuries ago.
With UNESCO currently supporting an enormous 1,199 World Heritage Sites, we look at arguably the most beautiful.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
One of the world’s most curious sites is the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an eight-story bell tower completed in August 1173.
Part of a larger cathedral complex, the tower stands at 196 feet and took about 200 years to complete, with works delayed due to many wars. The tower’s elaborate design has been likened to a ‘wedding cake’ and is one of Italy’s most popular tourist spots.
Reims Cathedral, France
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Reims Cathedral was constructed between the 13th and 14th centuries. With a length of almost 500 feet and a history that encapsulates countless royalty and even Joan of Arc, the Cathedral is often compared to another iconic French cathedral, the Notre Dame.
Krak Des Chevaliers, Syria
A famed source of military medieval architecture, the Krak Des Chevaliers in Syria is a fortress European crusaders built in the 12th century. Though the impressive structure was built for defense rather than beauty, its robust stature encourages awe.
The Krak Des Chevaliers has withstood centuries of unrest and can be visited today despite being under repairs from shell damage in 2014.
The Prague Astronomical Clock, Czech Republic
This astoundingly ornate astronomical clock was constructed in 1410, making it one of the oldest astronomical clocks on earth and the oldest still in operation.
Known also as The Orloj, the clock features a calendar dial below. Both are intricately detailed and are found in Prague’s Old Town Square.
Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland
The first impression of the Eilean Donan Castle was constructed in the 13th century. It has undergone multiple changes throughout the years, with the most recent rebuilding in 1932.
Built on a small island between three lochs, the castle is surrounded by breathtaking Scottish scenery, making it a tourist’s favorite stopoff point. It was built for defensive purposes, but the castle now reminds us of an age once lived.
Vatican City
Especially significant for branches of Christianity, the Vatican City is the resting place of the Apostle Saint Peter. It is home to the famous Sistine Chapel and many other notable structures of history.
Vatican City displays striking examples of Renaissance art and architecture, including iconic Michelangelo and Leonardi Da Vinci pieces.
Medina of Fez, Morocco
While not as impactful at first sight as other historical landmarks, the Medina of Fez in Morocco is a well-maintained example of past life, rich in Arab and Muslim history and art.
The intricate architecture and open living spaces are accessible for all, creating an authentic image of how this culture lived when it was built in the 9th century.
With brightly colored buildings and a looming fortress, the city stands not all differently from how it did centuries ago.
Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy
Built between the 11th and 16th centuries, this striking abbey was dedicated to the Archangel St Michael. It sits high above ocean sandbanks on a rocky isle. Though the style was Gothic, the architecture was influenced and redesigned to work with the rough ocean landscape, giving the abbey more of a fortress appeal.
With its breathtaking location and imposing features, the Mont Saint Michel is a wonder that has survived the ages.
Hohensalzburg Fortress, Austria
The largest fully preserved castle in central Europe, the Hohensalzburg Castle, sits proudly overlooking the city of Salzburg.
Constructed in 1077, the fortress was created to protect its people, namely archbishops, from attack. Today, the building is used as a museum. However, many of the interior furnishings remain unchanged from the early 1500s.
Carcassonne, France
The fortified city of Carcassonne existed in the pre-Roman period; however, much of the architecture derives from the 13th century. Featuring vast steeples and surrounded by moats, the city exemplifies pre-Roman life.
The city is also home to the Saint-Nazaire Cathedral, which appears much as it did in the Middle Ages, with stained glass windows and sculpted decoration.
Notre Dame, France
One of the most famous medieval landmarks, Notre Dame, stands proudly in Paris, France. It was built in the 12th century on the ruins of two other churches.
The interior of Notre Dame Cathedral reaches an expansive 427 feet, with towers 223 feet high. The enormous structure has undergone damage and restoration throughout time but continues to display some of the most detailed art and architecture from hundreds of years ago.
Kronborg Castle, Denmark
This 16th-century castle served as a toll collector for ships throughout hundreds of years. The Renaissance building has also served as the setting inspiration for Shakespeare’s Hamlet and a filming location for multiple other works.
With white walls of sandstone and copper roofs, the castle was a symbol of strength and wealth for Denmark in its prime.
Westminster Abbey, England
While it might play an active role in ceremonies today, Westminster Abbey has been a symbol of monarchy and government since its construction in the 13th century. Though the chapel’s design was inspired by French cathedrals, by the time the abbey was officially completed in the 18th century, Gothic art and architecture were fully credited as being of the English style.
Most sovereigns have been crowned at Westminster, most recently King Charles III in 2023. The abbey is also strangely home to the oldest door in Britain, an internal wood door built in the 1050s.
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.