The 10 Most Beautiful Churches in Spain

Seville Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Sea, is the largest gothic cathedral in the world with a beauty that surpasses all expectations. This architectural marvel, completed in the early 16th century, stands in full glory in the middle of the sprawling city of Seville. According to chronicles about the cathedral, the architects thought, ‘the church was built so beautiful and so grand that those who see it finished will think we are mad’. The cathedral is also the burial site for Christopher Columbus.

The impressive gothic cathedral in Burgos is a symbol of architectural sophistication that will astonish visitors with its delicate charm. The cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was initially commissioned in the 13th century by King Ferdinand III of Castile and completed in the 16th century. The dazzling building comprises octagonal spires and ogival arched framing. There are also dozens of open stonework traceries with stunning sculpture works.

It would be hard to deny the fairy tale charm of the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, considered by some as the magnum opus of gothic-style architecture. The cathedral was commissioned in the 13th century by Ferdinand III of Castile and was completed two centuries later. This architectural marvel built with white limestone is best known for the light which streams in from open vaults, which gives the whole place an otherworldly appearance. It is recommended to visit the Cathedral Treasury – it houses an incredible collection of precious stones.

The history of Cadiz Cathedral dates back to the 18th century, when it was built as a memorandum of the trade relationship between America and Spain. The place was named the Cathedral of the Americas. The cathedral’s vibrant architectural mix is reflected in many ways in the curious combination of a grand gothic style intertwined with rococo and neoclassical styles. The place was built by architect Vincenzo Acero, who also built the Cathedral of Granada. The golden dome towering majestically above the entire construction is the most recognizable element of the cathedral; it makes a lasting impression on visitors to the site.

Among Spain’s churches, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is one of the most iconic and original. It took some time to convince the pope to sponsor the building. But, once it was approved, the internationally acclaimed Catalan architect and visionary Antoni Gaudi began his enormous project in 1882; it’s still unfinished and being constructed today. With its innovative architectural style, which combines gothic and Art-Nouveau elements, Sagrada Familia has taken a well-deserved place as one of the most extraordinary architectural marvels of all times. People travel from all over the world to see the building, and it has come to be one of Barcelona’s main sights. The Basilica is expected to be completed in 2026 – the year of the centenary of Gaudi’s death.