Discover the great Cathedrals of the world
The great era of building Cathedrals, those monuments to faith, power and influence, began almost a millennium ago when the Christian Church dominated everything from birth and death to the afterlife in ordinary people’s lives. These epic buildings were conceived to make the spiritual concrete and to symbolise a voyage between this world and the next. Today, there are many reasons why we are drawn to explore ancient and modern Cathedrals; it may be to wonder at the scale and architecture, to inspect the rich artistry and craftsmanship or our curiosity for their stories, mysteries and histories. Whatever the purpose, there are many magnificent buildings that can be experienced around the world. Here are some that you may enjoy discovering…
1
Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain
Tallest cathedral in the world
In Barcelona, encounter the extraordinary Sagrada Família, designed by architect Antoni Gaudí who said, “My client is not in a hurry,” referring to God and his deadline. Begun in 1882 and still under construction, it seems his client is waiting patiently, this unique basilica blends Gothic and Art Nouveau forms with breathtaking creativity. Its towering façades are rich with symbolic carvings, while inside, tree-like columns and vibrant stained-glass create a dazzling play of light and colour. Every detail reflects Gaudí’s vision of nature and spirituality. A true icon of innovation and artistry, the Sagrada Família offers an unforgettable experience at the heart of Catalan culture.
2
Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, France
Most celebrated in fiction and film
The timeless beauty of Notre-Dame, Paris’s iconic Gothic cathedral, draws visitors from around the world. Begun in 1163 on the site of earlier religious structures, including a Roman-era temple thought to have been dedicated to Jupiter, it has stood at the heart—both geographically and symbolically—of French heritage ever since. Victor Hugo’s famous novel Notre Dame de Paris, featuring the tragic Quasimodo, was actually devised as a plea to preserve Gothic architecture. Its imposing towers, elaborate carvings, and magnificent rose windows still inspire awe. Reconstructed after the 2019 fire with thirteen hundred oak trees, its vaulted roof, la forêt, is remarkable. Look closely as you explore to spot the gargoyles and grotesques intricately carved into the stonework, believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the building from harm.
Discover Notre-Dame on our Paris & the Heart of Normandy river journey.
3
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey
Most reclaimed sacred space
In 1453, when Istanbul fell to the Ottomans, legend says its priests vanished into Hagia Sophia’s walls, where they remain awaiting return to this day. Discover this mystery and other curiosities like the healing “weeping column” and 9th Century Viking graffiti, in this splendid world-famous monument. Built in 537 AD as a Byzantine cathedral, later an imperial mosque, Hagia Sophia has been repeatedly transformed by different faiths and empires, yet it remains a global symbol of cultural fusion, architectural brilliance, and enduring beauty. Following a period as a museum, Hagia Sophia was formally redesignated as an active mosque. Prepare to be astounded by its enigmatic dome, intricate mosaics and elegant calligraphy that reflect centuries of both Christian and Islamic artistry.
Explore the history of Hagia Sophia on our Ancient Mediterranean Treasures ocean voyage.
4
Cologne Cathedral, Germany
Tallest twin-spired Gothic cathedral
“When the Cathedral is finished, the world will end” is an old Cologne saying; happily for visitors, even after 632 years, construction continues on this Gothic masterpiece commonly known as Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral). Before entering, admire its landmark twin-spires that dominate the skyline then step inside to see intricate stained-glass windows, medieval sculptures, and the revered Shrine of the Three Kings. It was used as a navigational aid by Allied pilots during World War Two, nevertheless it was still bombed fourteen times but the cathedral’s robust structure helped it withstand extensive damage. It became a symbol of resilience and artistry, making it perfect for those seeking culture and inspiration.
Discover Cologne Cathedral on our Rhine Getaway river journey.
5
Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Second oldest church in the Western Hemisphere
Discover the historic San Juan Bautista Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, located in the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Originally established in the early 16th century, its elegant Spanish colonial architecture has survived earthquakes and reflects centuries of religious heritage. Inside, admire beautiful vaulted ceilings and intricate chapels including the national shrine to Our Lady of Divine Providence, Puerto Rico’s patron. Visit the tomb of famed explorer and conquistador Juan Ponce de León, first governor of San Juan, who led the first European exploration of Florida in 1513. Blending history, art, and spirituality, this remarkable cathedral offers a rich glimpse into Puerto Rico’s cultural and architectural legacy.
Discover Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista on our West Indies Explorer ocean journey.
6
St Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest, Hungary
Home of sacred relics, bells and tombs
Inside this neoclassical building lies Hungary’s most sacred relic—the mummified right hand of St Stephen preserved in a golden chapel—a symbol of faith, history, and national pride. The grandeur of St Stephen’s Basilica, completed in 1905, does not disappoint and impresses with its vast dome and symmetrical façade. Ferenc Puskás, the legendary Real Madrid player and greatest Hungarian footballer of all time, is also buried in the Basilica. Admire its intricate mosaics, marble columns, and stunning artworks and climb to the dome for breathtaking city views. Visit on St Stephen’s Day and experience one of Budapest’s most treasured traditions as Hungary’s largest bell, the iconic “Great Bell”, rings out across the city. Heard only twice a year, its powerful sound creates a truly memorable atmosphere, offering visitors an unforgettable cultural experience in the heart of Hungary’s historic capital.
Discover St Stephen’s Basilica during your Romantic Danube river journey.
7
Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence, Italy
Largest cupola in the world
Discover the magnificence of Florence’s iconic cathedral, which has captivated the world for centuries. Begun in 1296, Santa Maria del Fiore, whose name alludes to the lily, Florence’s emblem, still dominates both the skyline and the imagination. Crowned by Brunelleschi’s revolutionary dome (cupola), an extraordinary feat of engineering completed over 16 years, the cathedral stands as a triumph of Renaissance innovation. Inside, artworks spanning the 14th to 19th centuries by masters such as Giotto and Donatello, enrich its vast interior. Cast your eyes up to the dramatic frescoes of The Last Judgment, commissioned by Cosimo I de Medici and painted by Vasari and Zuccari. A masterpiece of history, art, and ingenuity, the cathedral offers an unforgettable glimpse into Florence’s cultural brilliance.
Discover the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore on our Iconic Western Mediterranean ocean voyage.
8
Ishavskatedralen, Tromsø, Norway
Inspired by Arctic nature
Prepare to be captivated by the striking Ishavskatedralen, set beside the Tromsø Bridge and dominating the Tromsdalen skyline. Completed in 1965, this iconic modern church—widely known as the Arctic Cathedral—was designed by architect Jan Inge Hovig. Its bold triangular form was inspired by Arctic nature, evoking ice formations and the dramatic landscapes of northern Norway. Inside, Victor Sparre’s spectacular stained-glass mosaic fills the interior with vibrant colour and light. The cathedral’s organ, installed in 2005, features 2,940 pipes; much of its woodwork is crafted from solid pine, and its bellows are made from reindeer hide. A powerful symbol of Tromsø, the Arctic Cathedral is a breathtaking architectural landmark, especially during the magical blue hour of the polar winter.
9
St Vitus Cathedral, Prague, Czech Republic
Famous for Wenceslas and windows
Within Prague Castle, famed for the Defenestrations of Prague where political opponents were thrown from windows during some of Bohemia’s most dramatic political conflicts, stands the splendid St Vitus Cathedral. Begun in 1344 and completed centuries later, its soaring spires, intricate carvings, and striking stained-glass windows captivate. Inside, discover the richly decorated Chapel of St Wenceslas (once ‘Good King Wenceslas…’ of Christmas carol fame), magnificent royal tombs, vaulted ceilings, and detailed stonework. Examine the beautiful Art Nouveau windows by famous illustrator Alphonse Mucha, which include touching scenes of St Wenceslas’ grandmother St Ludmila who was tragically strangled with a veil on the orders of Drahomíra amid a dynastic power struggle. Steeped in history and cultural significance, St Vitus Cathedral offers a breathtaking glimpse into the heart of dramatic Czech heritage.
Explore St Vitus Cathedral on our Elegant Elbe river journey.
10
Catedral Metropolitana, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Most unexpected appearance
Delight in the unique appearance of the Catedral Metropolitana, whose striking neoclassical façade resembles a Greek temple. With origins dating back to the 16th century, it has served as Argentina’s principal Catholic church since the Spanish colonial era. Visit the tomb of General José de San Martín, Argentina’s most revered independence hero and the “Liberator of Argentina, Chile and Peru”. The cathedral also holds a special place in modern history as the former seat of Pope Francis during his time as Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Born in the city, he later became the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope, further enhancing the cathedral’s global significance. Today, the Catedral Metropolitana serves as a powerful symbol of faith, history, and cultural identity while offering visitors a unique connection to Argentina’s past and enduring heritage.
Discover Catedral Metropolitana on our South American & Chilean Fjords ocean journey.