The Most Beautiful Religious Buildings in the World

Jordana Weiss | November 27, 2017

For many people, a visit to a religious building is a normal part of everyday life, while for others it’s a rare experience. Whether you practice a certain religion or actively don’t practice a religion, there are so many beautiful buildings in the world that were built specifically for the worship of a higher power that are worth a visit.

Generally, these buildings are precious to people not only because of their physical appearance, but because of what they represent to the community. Regardless of your faith, the next time you’re traveling, check out one of these incredibly beautiful buildings.

Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey

Although it’s no longer an active religious building, the Hagia Sophia has a very unique history. The first building on the site was erected in 537 AD, and it was used as a Greek Orthodox church for almost a thousand years. The city was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and the building was turned into a mosque on the orders of Mehmed the Conqueror.

If you visit the Hagia Sophia today, make sure to take in all of the unique features from its Christian and Muslim history that are mashed together to form a completely one of a kind church.

Boris Stroujko / Shutterstock

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