15 sacred structures considered architectural masterpieces
Many sacred structures around the world have become famous destinations thanks to their impressive architecture, giving visitors unforgettable experiences.
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| Paro Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan: This monastery is perched on a cliff in Bhutan's Paro Valley. It is said to be where Guru Padmasambhava meditated. Photo:Tiranapost. |
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| Nasir Al-molk Mosque, Iran:Located in Shiraz, this mosque is famous for its brilliant stained glass windows, creating a magical, magnificent scene like heaven on earth. Photo:National Geographic. |
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| St. Basil's Cathedral, Russia:Located near the Kremlin, at the southern end of Moscow's Red Square, St. Basil's Cathedral was built in the 16th century and symbolizes the kingdom of heaven. Photo:Dariknews. |
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| Angkor Wat Temple, Cambodia:Considered the pride of the nation, Angkor Wat was built to resemble the sacred Hindu mountain Meru (Tanzania), the abode of the gods. Photo:Michelin Green Guide. |
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| Florence Cathedral, Italy:Towering over the Florence skyline, this cathedral's impressive Renaissance dome was designed by renowned architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Photo:PegnRope. |
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| La Sagrada Familia, Spain:This Roman Catholic church is located in Barcelona and is still unfinished. It is the “brainchild” of architect Antoni Gaudi. Photo:YourBarcelonaGuide. |
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| Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque, UAE:As the largest mosque in the UAE, Shaikh Zayed is located in Abu Dhabi, with magnificent, lavish architecture and a capacity of up to 40,000 people. Photo:National Geographic. |
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| Las Lajas Cathedral, Colombia:This Gothic Revival Roman Catholic church is located in a gorge of the Guáitara River in Nariño. Visitors must cross a bridge at a dizzying height to reach the church. Photo:Toronto Star. |
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| Wat Rong Khun Temple, Thailand:This striking white structure is located near Chiang Rai and is a unique tourist attraction. Photo:Thailand |
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| Great Mosque of Isfahan, Iran:Located in the historic center of Isfahan, the architecture of this mosque has changed over 12 centuries, since its construction in 841. The mosque has an impressive dome, attracting visitors from all over the world. Photo:Iran Traveling Center. |
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| Kamo Shrine, Japan:The Kamo Shrines - including Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine - of the Shinto religion in the ancient capital of Kyoto are recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This structure was built before Kyoto became the capital of Japan in 794. Photo:GaijinPot Travel. |
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| St. George's Church, Ethiopia:This complex of 11 churches was built in the 13th century in Lalibela. All are carved from monolithic stone, a remarkable achievement in architecture. Photo:VideoVision360. |
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| Wudang Mountain Ancient Site, China:Located in Hubei province, this Taoist complex was built in the 7th century. It is famous for its picturesque scenery. Photo:Wudangcanarias. |
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| Sri Harmandir Sahib Golden Temple, India:Combining Islamic and Hindu architecture, the Golden Temple of India overwhelms visitors with its beauty and luxury, as the entire exterior is covered in gold leaf. Photo:Ohindul. |
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| Szeged Cathedral, Hungary:The domed cathedral in Szeged has an Art Nouveau and Historicist exterior, while the interior is a mix of styles, from Gothic walls to Romanesque columns. Photo:Richard Toy/Flickr. |
