A church is not just a religious site; in many cases, it is a symbol of architectural and cultural heritage. Here is a list of the 15 biggest churches in the world and their special features analyzed.
1. St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
St. Peter’s Basilica is often referred to as the biggest church in the world. Its interior area is about 15,160 square meters, and its capacity is about 60,000 people.
The basilica’s unique architecture – the massive dome, marble floors, and iconography – has made it famous. It is a central landmark in the heart of Christianity.
2. Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, Brazil
Located in Brazil, this church has an interior area of about 12,000 square meters.
The capacity is around 30,000 to 45,000 (most sources say 45,000).
This church is one of the religious centers of Brazil and, due to its size and importance, holds the top spot on the list of the biggest churches in the world.
3. Milan Cathedral, Italy
This church, located in Milan, Italy, covers an internal area of about 11,700 square meters.
Its capacity is about 40,000 people.
The architecture of the church is in the Gothic style, decorated with many spires and marble work, which makes it truly an architectural marvel.
4. Seville Cathedral, Spain
The Seville Cathedral is a complex and huge church, with an internal area of about 11,520 square meters.
It holds an important place on the list of the biggest churches in the world due to its size and height. The Gothic architecture and the huge spire make it a must-see.
5. Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York, United States
Located in New York City, this church has an interior area of approximately 11,200 square meters.
The capacity is approximately 8,000–9,000 people.
It is nicknamed “St. John the Unfinished” because it is not completely built, and its design is a mixture of different styles.
6. Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Ivory Coast
This church covers an area of approximately 7,989 square meters.
The capacity is approximately 18,000 (7,000 seated and 11,000 standing) people.
Many consider it the largest church in the world due to its size and impressive structure.
The church is famous for its marble work, high domes, and striking architectural style.
7. Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń, Poland
Located in Poland, it covers an area of about 10,090 square meters.
Capacity is about 7,000.
The church’s very high dome and bell tower give it a special status from an architectural point of view.
8. Basilica of the Holy Trinity, Fatima, Portugal
This church covers an area of about 8,700 square meters.
Capacity is about 9,000 people. It serves as a new visionary building and an important pilgrimage center for religious tourists.
9. Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, Rome, Italy
Located in Rome, this church covers an area of about 8,515 square meters and is an ecclesiastical heritage site.
It is an ancient and religiously significant church, which is considered part of the biggest churches in the world.
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10. Basilica-Cathedral of Our Lady of the Pillar, Zaragoza, Spain
This church is also a great example of a mix of basilica and cathedral. It has an area of about 8,318 square meters.
It is one of the most important religious monuments in Spain and is included in the list of the largest churches.
11. Liverpool Cathedral, United Kingdom
This cathedral, located in Liverpool, covers an area of about 9,687 square meters.
It is one of the largest churches in the United Kingdom and has been included in the list of the biggest churches in the world due to its size and importance.
12. Florence Cathedral, Italy
The Florence Cathedral is listed by various sources as having an area of about 8,300 square meters.
This church is particularly famous for its Renaissance style, large domes, and artwork.
13. Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico
Located in Mexico City, this church covers an area of approximately 8,167 square meters.
It is one of the world’s major religious pilgrimage centers, especially for Catholics in Latin America.
14. Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp, Belgium
The size of this church is about 8,000 square meters (estimated by various sources).
It is important in terms of architectural and historical significance, and may be part of the list of the biggest churches in the world.
15. Ulm Minster, Germany
The Ulm Minster is also one of the largest churches; its interior area is about 8,260 square meters.
Although it is very large in size, its top position is due to another reason: its tall minaret or dome, which makes the church visually very impressive.
Analysis and Significance
Architectural Power: These churches are not just religious places; they are architectural and engineering feats. The huge domes, marble interiors, intricate inscriptions, and bell towers add to their beauty and permanence.
Cultural and religious influence: Many churches act as magnets for pilgrims or travelers. Their classical or modernity also has great religious significance.
Capacity: Some churches have a very large capacity, which is important for religious communities, especially during festivals or religious gatherings.
History and heritage: Many churches are centuries old, and their construction is deeply connected to the history, architectural style, and culture.
When you hear the phrase “the biggest church in the world,” St. Peter’s Basilica probably comes to mind first, and many would agree. But there are many large churches in the world that have equally great regional, cultural, and architectural significance. Aparecida in Brazil, Milan and Florence in Italy, Seville in Spain, these are not only religious, but also public monuments.
Hi readers. I’m Piyali Batabyal, a passionate blogger who loves to share her thoughts, ideas, and experiences across a variety of topics—from lifestyle and beauty to personal growth and creativity. With a curious mind and a love for words.
Alongside my writing, I am also a professional makeup artist with a flair for enhancing natural beauty and creating transformative looks.