Top 10 Gothic Churches in Europe

Originating in Northern France in the early 12^th century, Gothic architecture sprang from the Romanesque movement. It was characterized by pointed arches, flying buttresses, and stained-glass windows. The first notable building constructed in the Gothic style was the Basilica of Saint-Denis in Paris. From here, the movement quickly spread throughout Europe.

If you’re planning to visit Europe’s most iconic Gothic masterpieces, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the top 10 gothic churches in Europe.

1. Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris or Notre Dame is a medieval catholic cathedral in Paris, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Not only is it one of the oldest Gothic churches in France, but it is also one of the world’s most famous.

The famous cathedral stands on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris, and has its main entrance to the west. Construction began in the 11^th century, but the building took over 200 years to complete. Today, Notre Dame is considered one of the greatest examples of French Gothic architecture.

While Notre Dame is currently closed , visitors are still welcome to admire the exterior of the archaeological crypt from a distance.

2. Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore is the main cathedral in Florence, Italy. Construction began in 1296 and was completed in 1436 . Today, the cathedral is considered one of the most important landmarks in Tuscany.

Situated in the city center, Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore stands tall with its striking Renaissance dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Visitors can venture inside, but you must ensure you wear clothing suitable for a place of worship. Bare legs, sandals, hats, and sunglasses are not permitted. Visitors are also welcome to climb the Duomo, which offers incredible views of the city and surrounding countryside.

3. Duomo di Milano

Duomo di Milano or Millan Cathedral is a landmark synonymous with Italy’s most fashionable city. Construction began in 1386 , but didn't end until five centuries later. During this time, various architects and sculptors contributed to its distinctive architecture, which is now a combination of both Gothic and Renaissance styles.

Inside the cathedral, large paintings depicting scenes from the Bible adorn the walls. Relics of patron saints also lie in glass caskets throughout the building. The Duomo is open to visitors and tickets can be purchased online. Guests can also climb to the very top of the cathedral, via the stairs or the elevator, and enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Millan.

4. Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is a catholic cathedral in Cologne, Germany. It’s currently the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and has also been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996.

The cathedral took more than 600 years to construct, and it's no wonder. This stunning German structure has the largest façade of any church in the world, and its twin spires soar more than 500 feet high. One of the cathedral's main attractions, the Shrine of the Three Kings, is believed to house the remains of the biblical Magi, also known as the Three Wise Men.

Cologne Cathedral is free to visit and attracts more than six million tourists a year. The Cologne Cathedral Treasury is also open to the public, but visitors will have to pay a fee to enter.

5.  York Minster

People traveling to York, England, rarely leave without seeing York Minster.  As the second largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe, the minster takes pride of place in the heart of the city.

Besides daily worship and services, York Minster offers plenty of highlights to explore. Admire the 128 stained-glass windows or uncover the history of the city at the Undercroft Museum, located beneath the minster. Visitors can also climb the tower to see the city from a completely different angle.  

The minster runs special events throughout the year, including the spectacular festival of light, so make sure you check the calendar before you visit.

6. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims or Reims Cathedral is located on the banks of the Vesle River in Reims, France. It features two striking twin towers, stunning stained-glass windows, and an abundance of statues..

Aside from its exquisite architecture, the cathedral has a rich heritage. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Reims Cathedral was the sacred location chosen to host the coronations of the kings of France. It’s no wonder it was classed as a UNESCO world heritage site back in 1991.

Reims Cathedral is easily one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France, surrounded by flying buttresses. Plus, it’s the only cathedral to have a collection of sculptures of angels with open wings on display. 

7. Seville Cathedral

If you want to admire the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, then head to Seville, Spain. The sheer size of Seville Cathedral makes it well worth a visit.

Built atop the great Aljama Mosque, Seville Cathedral retains some of its original Moorish style, including the Patio de los Naranjos, where worshipers washed in the fountain before going to prayer. In addition to being a house of God, this cathedral also houses the remains of the explorer Cristobal Colon, also known as Christopher Columbus.

The cathedral is open to the public, with both English and Spanish tours available. Visitors can also enjoy unbeatable city views from the top of the bell tower.

8. Chartres Cathedral

Chartres Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Characters is a catholic church in Chartres, France. When it comes to near-perfect preservation, the Chartres Cathedral reigns supreme. Its High Gothic architecture has undergone only minor changes since the 13^th century, and most of its medieval stained glass remains untouched. And if that weren’t impressive enough, this site also contains the Sancta Camisa, believed to be the exact tunic Mary wore while giving birth to Jesus.

Chartres Cathedral is open daily, but the crypts are only available to those who take a guided tour.

9. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

A testament to freedom having survived several conflicts, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is in the heart of Vienna, Austria. Distinctive design details include its majestic towers and a richly adorned rooftop featuring diamond-patterned tiles and the city’s coat of arms. The cathedral is also crowned by a 137-metre-tall spire, which is visible from all over Vienna.

Guided tours of St. Stephen’s Cathedral take visitors down into the catacombs. Not open to the public, however, are the bones of the nearly 10,000 Viennese citizens entombed here.

10. Basilica of St. Denis

The Basilica of St. Denis is a former medieval church and the current cathedral of Sanit-Dennis. Not only is it the burial site of the French Royal Family, but it was also built over the grave of Saint Denis, a missionary bishop who died in the third century.

The Basilica of St. Denis is also famous for being the first cathedral to feature Gothic architecture and to emphasize light, a symbol of divinity. Take a guided tour to admire the building’s stunning architecture up close and learn more about the history of France’s historic Kings and Queens.

Offering exquisite architectural beauty and rich history, Gothic churches make a great addition to any European vacation itinerary. Don’t forget to snap pics of your favorites and share them with us on Instagram.