"Quintessential High Gothic masterpiece (mostly 1194–1260 after a fire). Famous for its exceptional, largely original medieval stained glass, sculpted portals, and harmonious proportions. A major pilgrimage site and UNESCO World Heritage site."

"Iconic French Gothic cathedral on the Île de la Cité (begun 1163). Famous for its western façade, rose windows, flying buttresses, and cultural symbolism. Fully restored and reopened after the 2019 fire."

"Massive High Gothic cathedral (construction began 1248; completed 1880). Once the world’s tallest building; renowned for its twin spires (157 m), intricate stonework, and scale. UNESCO site."

"Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished modernist basilica (begun 1882). Organic forms, symbolic detail, and light-filled interiors make it one of the most original religious buildings in the world. Still under construction."

"The largest church in the world and the spiritual center of Catholicism. Renaissance-to-Baroque masterpiece (Michelangelo’s dome, Bernini’s colonnade and baldachin). Built over the traditional site of St. Peter’s tomb."

"Iconic Renaissance landmark dominated by Brunelleschi’s ingenious dome. Polychrome marble exterior (green, white, pink) and nearby baptistery and campanile complete the ensemble in Piazza del Duomo."

"The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, built on the site of a former mosque (15th century). Features the Giralda (former minaret turned bell tower), vast interior, and rich art (including Columbus’s tomb). UNESCO site."

"A standout Bavarian Baroque/Rococo masterpiece (1745–1754), designed by the Zimmermann brothers (Dominikus and Johann Baptist). This oval pilgrimage church is renowned for its luminous, highly ornate interior—stucco, frescoes, gilding, and a dramatic high altar centered on an image of the Scourged Saviour. Set in the Alpine foothills, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and frequently cited as one of Europe’s most beautiful Baroque churches."

"Gothic cathedral famous for its single soaring spire (once the world’s tallest building) and richly sculpted western façade. Blend of French and German influences; astronomical clock inside."

"One of northern Europe’s largest Gothic cathedrals, with spectacular stained glass (including the Five Sisters Window), vast scale, and layered Romanesque-to-Perpendicular styles."