Posted on Saturday, 18 May 2019

Cathedrals represent some of the most ambitious and beautiful architecture the world has ever known - and often form the focal point of a visit to any ancient city. Here we list our top 10, based not only on aesthetics, but also on the attractions and amenities around them.

Notre Dame, Paris

In the news for all the wrong reasons last month, Notre Dame lost its 91m spire in a fire along with much of its roofing. President Macron has vowed to rebuild the gothic masterpiece within five years. Despite the damage, the exterior of the cathedral is still a sight to behold. And when you add the astonishing attractions of Paris (the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Versaille, to name just a few) you have one of the best cathedral-based city breaks in the world.

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

As astonishing on the outside as it is inside, the Sagrada Familia's first stones were laid in 1882 - and it's still not complete! After the original architect resigned, Antoni Gaudi took over in 1883 and harnessed a Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau style to continue work. The cathedral "should" be finished in 2026. Tourists are permitted inside, where a kaleidoscopic set of stained-glass windows are a true wonder. And when you've had your fill of this most unique of churches, you have the whole of Barcelona to enjoy, including Park Güell, other Gaudi masterpieces (Casa Milà, Casa Batlló) and of course, the Camp Nou stadium.

Pisa Cathedral, Pisa

OK, Pisa Cathedral is somewhat overshadowed (sometimes literally) by the Leaning Tower of Pisa, which is just across the way. But it's still an astonishing building in its own right. Construction began in 1063. Don't miss the Cathedral Museum, or other city attractions, the National Museum and the Basilica Romanica - the latter reputedly built on the spot where St Peter landed in Italy in 44AD.

Nidaros Cathedral, Trondheim, Norway

Once the coronation site of the kings of Norway, Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim took an astonishing 230 years to build, with the first stone laid in around 1070. It has been modified many times since. It's large enough to hold 1,850 people and is arguably the most beautiful building in Trondheim. The city itself is just as beguiling, having been founded as a trading post by the Vikings in AD 997. Don't miss the Old Town Bridge or the imposing Kristiansten Fortress.

Palma Cathedral, Palma, Mallorca

True, most visitors to Palma Cathedral actually came for the delightful beaches of Mallorca or Palma's party scene - but the cathedral is a rewarding visit for a half day. Started in 1229 it wasn't completed until 1601. Gaudi had a hand in modifications at the start of the century, but fell out with the contractor and moved on. Still, it's a beautiful cathedral.

Saint Basil's Cathedral, Moscow

No trip to the Russian capital is complete without a visit to St Basil's, built from 1555 to 1561 (pretty fast compared to others on our list) on orders from Ivan the Terrible. While you're here, don't miss Red Square, Lenin's Mausoleum, the Kremlin, or the architecturally stunning and internally fascinating State Historical Museum - home to the nation's largest coin collection.

Milan Cathedral, Milan

The exquisite Duomo di Milano is reason enough to visit this vibrant city, but if you love high fashion and art, you'll be truly bowled over. It is built on the site of St Thecla, completed in 355. The Battistero Paleocristiano - or baptistry - can still be visited under the cathedral, and also dates from 335.

Florence Cathedral, Florence

The iconic 115m high Florence Cathedral is the centrepiece of a city groaning under the weight of its own treasures. Started in 1296 this Gothic masterpiece was completed in 1436. Make sure you leave enough time to visit the uffizi gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio,  Pitti Palace and Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David.

Borgund Stavkirke: Borgund, Norway

It may look like the seat of power of some obscure Game of Thrones empire, but we assure you, this church exists. This temple-like church is made of timber and features more than six stepped roofs. It's considered one of Norway's finest traditional stave-style cathedrals.

Salisbury Cathedral, UK

Salisbury's main body was completed in a mere 38 years, from 1220 to 1258. At 123m, its spire is the tallest of any church in the UK. It also boasts the largest cloister and the biggest cathedral close in the country, at 80 acres. While it's tough to choose among the many stunning cathedrals in Britain, Salisbury's proximity to Stonehenge (9.4 miles) makes it the perfect place for a history buff to take a holiday.

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