These unique temples and churches around the world, along with the histories and cultures that shaped them, provide insight into the puzzling paradox of the most unifying yet divisive human constructs with architecture that inspires awe.
-
Gergeti Trinity Church, Georgia | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreGergeti Trinity Church, Georgia
Location and Builder: Perched atop a mountain near the village of Gergeti, it was built in the 14th century.
Religion: Georgian Orthodox
Unique Features: Its isolated location against the backdrop of Mount Kazbegi offers inspiring, awesome views.
Visitation: Accessible by a hike, it remains a functioning church and a popular pilgrimage site. -
Lajas Sanctuary, Colombia | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreLajas Sanctuary, Colombia
Location and Builder: Built between 1916 and 1949, this church is situated in a canyon over the Guáitara River.
Religion: Catholic
Unique Features: Famous for its stunning Gothic architecture built directly into the canyon wall.
Visitation: It’s open for visitors and remains a vibrant center of pilgrimage and tourism. -
Paro Taktsang, Bhutan | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreParo Taktsang, Bhutan
Location and Builder: Clinging to a cliff in the Paro Valley, it was first built in 1692 around the Taktsang Senge Samdup cave.
Religion: Buddhist
Unique Features: Known as the Tiger’s Nest, this monastery is associated with Guru Rinpoche's miraculous journey on a tigress' back.
Visitation: Reachable by trek, it’s a sacred site that requires respectful conduct by all visitors. -
Beth Sholom Synagogue, USA | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreBeth Sholom Synagogue, USA
Location and Builder: Located in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, it was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1959.
Religion: Jewish
Unique Features: Known for its striking modernist design and unique construction, resembling a Mount Sinai.
Visitation: Tours are available, providing insights into both its architectural and cultural significance. -
Grundtvig’s Church, Denmark | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreGrundtvig’s Church, Denmark
Location and Builder: Situated in Copenhagen, it was designed by Peder Vilhelm Jensen-Klint and built in the early 20th century.
Religion: Lutheran
Unique Features: Its design combines the style of a traditional Gothic church with expressionist modernist themes.
Visitation: Open for public visits, it stands as a towering figure in Danish cultural heritage. -
Paraportiani Church, Greece | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreParaportiani Church, Greece
Location and Builder: Positioned in Mykonos, this fascinating architectural complex is a union of five churches, constructed from the 14th to the 17th centuries.
Religion: Greek Orthodox
Unique Features: Its picturesque structure, whitewashed asymmetrically, makes it a photographic icon.
Visitation: It’s a visible highlight for visitors to Mykonos, reflecting the Cycladic architecture style. -
Saint Panteleimon Church, Macedonia | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreSaint Panteleimon Church, Macedonia
Location and Builder: This church is situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, built in the 9th century.
Religion: Eastern Orthodox
Unique Features: It is notable for its Byzantine frescoes and architecture.
Visitation: Open to visitors, the church is part of the rich historical tapestry of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. -
The Hassan II Mosque, Morocco | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreThe Hassan II Mosque, Morocco
Location and Builder: Situated in Casablanca, this mosque was completed in 1993 and designed by Michel Pinseau.
Religion: Islam
Unique Features: It stands partly over the Atlantic Ocean, and is known for its vast size and intricate Moroccan craftsmanship.
Visitation: Open to both Muslims and non-Muslims, it offers guided tours, showcasing its architectural beauty and cultural significance. -
Wat Rong Khun, Thailand | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreWat Rong Khun, Thailand
Location and Builder: Located in Chiang Rai, construction started in 1997 by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat.
Religion: Buddhist
Unique Features: Known as the White Temple, it is famous for its unconventional, contemporary, and visually striking design.
Visitation: Accessible to tourists, it operates both as a place of worship and art exhibition. -
Blue Mosque, Turkey | Photo: ShutterstockSee MoreBlue Mosque, Turkey
Location and Builder: Situated in Istanbul, finished in 1616 under the rule of Sultan Ahmed I.
Religion: Islam
Unique Features: Known for its six minarets and striking blue tiles that adorn the interior.
Visitation: It remains an active mosque while also being a major tourist destination in Istanbul.
