Cathedrals aren’t exactly known for being understated, but these jaw-dropping monuments reach new heights when it comes to spectacular architecture.
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia started life as a cathedral, then it was turned into a mosque, and today it’s had another transformation into one of the city’s most popular museums and tourist attractions.
Evidence of the Hagia Sophia’s transition from cathedral to mosque can be seen in the installation of a mihrab (in place of the original alter) and in the gigantic disks featuring Islamic calligraphy which now hang from the cavernous ceiling.
The Hagia Sophia’s decor is a rich and atmospheric example of Turkey’s complex history, while the jaw-dropping scale of the building speaks to the ambition of the original builders. Treat yourself to a view of this architectural must-see by checking into the Boutique Saint Sophia.
Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal, Canada
Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal
The Notre-Dame Basilica in Quebec is one of those rare building that is even more impressive inside than it is from the outside. Built in the Gothic Revival style, the interior of the cathedral is elaborately decorated in azure, scarlet and purple with touches of gold and silver,. The ceilings, meanwhile, are painted a deep blue and studded with glittering metallic stars.
One of the Notre-Dame Basilica’s many unique features is its gigantic stain-glass windows which feature depictions of local history. The windows are complemented by wooden carvings and a towering 7000+ pipe organ, dating from 1891. To stay somewhere with (almost) as much history as the cathedral, check into the nearby Hotel Nelligan.
Cathedral of Brasilia in Brasília, Brazil
Cathedral of Brasilia in Brasília
Considering how steeped in tradition and history many cathedrals are, it feels almost surreal to describe the Cathedral of Brasilia as ‘futuristic’ and ‘extraterrestrial’. But despite being completed in 1970, the Cathedral Brasilia could just as easily be from 3070.
In front of the cathedral stand four gigantic bronze sculptures, representing the Bible’s Four Evangelists. 16 white concrete pillars rise up above Evangelists’ heads, branching out at the top to create a fan-like effect as visitors to the cathedral pass underneath a suspended, 12-meter wide reflecting pool.
The cathedral architect was Oscar Niemeyer, who shaped Rio de Janeiro’s architectural landscape. Niemeyer designed many of the city’s most striking buildings, including the Brasília Palace Hotel where guests can dine at Oscar Restaurant.
Cathedral of Monreale in Sicily, Italy
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