Top 16 Most Spectacular Cathedrals in the World

After more than 290 blog posts, my Knycx journeying has become a treasured archive of footsteps across the globe. While I still have a serious backlog (don’t we all?), I’m doing my best to catch up—one story at a time. I hope these posts offer something useful, inspiring, or simply enjoyable to fellow travelers.

Feel free to leave a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or your own travel stories!

Staying connected while traveling has always been important to me—whether it’s for sharing updates or navigating new cities. That’s why I recommend travelers to get unlimited data with Holafly to make their journeys smoother and more enjoyable.

So… what better way to celebrate this milestone than with a special compilation?
Here’s my list of the most memorable cathedrals in Europe—chosen not just for their size or fame, but for their uniqueness, beauty, and the impression they left on me. It wasn’t easy narrowing it down from the thousands across the continent, so I’d love to hear your favorites too. Let’s keep the conversation going!

#16 Berliner Dom

Berlin, Germany

Highlight: Berlin’s largest Protestant church—where grandeur meets resilience

Standing proudly on Museum Island, the Berliner Dom is Berlin’s largest and most important Protestant church—a monumental structure that blends imperial ambition with spiritual significance. Despite its name, the Berliner Dom has never technically been a cathedral, as it was never the seat of a bishop. Instead, it serves as the Evangelical Supreme Parish and Collegiate Church, a title as grand as its architecture.

Its origins trace back to the 14th century, when Frederick II Irontooth of Brandenburg elevated a chapel on the island to parish church status. But the colossal building we see today was constructed between 1895 and 1905, commissioned by Emperor Wilhelm II as a Protestant counterweight to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Built in Neo-Renaissance style, it’s a prime example of Prussian Historicist architecture.

The cathedral suffered heavy damage during World War II, and during the GDR era, it remained closed and neglected. Restoration began in 1975, and after years of careful work—much of the original decoration simplified—it reopened in 1993, symbolizing Berlin’s rebirth and resilience.

Inside, the marble columns, gilded ornaments, and the magnificent pipe organ—crafted by Wilhelm Sauer with over 7,000 pipes—make for an opulent experience. It’s a space that feels both regal and reverent.

Berliner Dom is more than a church—it’s a symbol of Berlin’s layered history, architectural ambition, and cultural pride.

Check out A Berlin Top 5 Must-see List for Art, History, Architecture and Landmarks.

If you’re planning a visit and need to present official documents in Berlin, especially in a foreign language, be aware that certified translations may be required by local authorities—just a practical tip to keep your trip smooth.

#15 York Minster

York, United Kingdom

Highlight: “Look back”—to witness the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world

Step into York, and you step into a living tapestry of medieval England. Cobblestone streets, timber-framed buildings, and that unmistakable Harry Potter-esque charm make this one of the most visited towns in the UK. At its heart stands the majestic York Minster—a towering Gothic cathedral that anchors the city’s skyline and soul.

York Minster is the second-highest office of the Church of England, and while its architecture may echo the Gothic style seen across Europe, it holds a secret that sets it apart: the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world. The West Window and the Great East Window, completed in 1338 and 1408 respectively, are masterpieces of light and color, preserved for over 670 years.

Here’s a tip: when you enter through the front door, don’t forget to look back. That’s when the full glory of the stained glass reveals itself—an explosion of artistry and storytelling that has survived centuries of war, weather, and time.

York Minster isn’t just a cathedral—it’s a time capsule. A place where history, faith, and craftsmanship converge. And in a city that feels like stepping into the pages of a medieval novel, it’s the chapter you’ll never forget.

For the photos and more places to see in York, check out The Best Things to Do in York… in English Style.

#14 Tuomiokirkko

Helsinki, Finland

Highlight: A celebration of simplicity—where elegance meets quiet strength

In a continent filled with ornate cathedrals and gilded chapels, Tuomiokirkko, or Helsinki Cathedral, stands out by embracing simplicity. Originally named St. Nicholas’ Church in honor of Tsar Nicholas I, it was renamed after Finland’s independence in 1917, and today it’s the most photographed building in the country—gracefully perched above Senate Square, watching over the city like a serene guardian.

Its bright white façade, topped with green domes, is a striking contrast to the more elaborate Roman churches. Built in the 1800s, the cathedral’s Neoclassical design is clean, symmetrical, and quietly powerful. It may not overwhelm with grandeur, but it leaves a lasting impression—one that stayed with me ever since I first saw a photo of it dominating Helsinki’s skyline.

Inside, the cathedral is modest, reflecting the Lutheran values of restraint and clarity. Yet its presence is anything but ordinary. Even with other beautiful churches in Helsinki—like the Uspenski Cathedral with its Russian Orthodox flair—Tuomiokirkko remains the city’s spiritual and architectural centerpiece.

And while we’re in Helsinki, I have to mention the Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church. Built directly into solid bedrock, this Lutheran church is a marvel of modern design. With its copper dome, natural acoustics, and pipe organ, it’s not just cool—it’s unforgettable. A must-see for anyone exploring Finland’s capital.

For the photos and more places to see in Helsinki, check out How to Spend 4 Days Experiencing the Best of Helsinki’s Winter.

#13 St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Vienna, Austria

Highlight: A rooftop of 230,000 tiles—and a hidden message of resistance

In the heart of Vienna, St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) rises like a mosaic-covered sentinel, watching over the city with centuries of history etched into its stone. Dating back to the 12th century, this Gothic marvel is the symbol of Austria’s capital—and one of its most beloved landmarks.

The cathedral is home to 13 bells, including the mighty Pummerin, the second-largest free-swinging chimed church bell in Europe. But what truly steals the show is the artistic rooftop, soaring 38 meters above ground and covered in over 230,000 glazed tiles. It’s not just colorful—it’s symbolic. On the north side, two eagles represent Vienna and the Republic of Austria. On the south, a double-headed eagle pays homage to the Habsburg Empire.

Few churches in the world feature such expressive rooftops—only a handful, like St. Mark’s Church in Zagreb or Matthias Church in Budapest, come close. But St. Stephen’s is undoubtedly the most iconic and unforgettable.

Beyond its visual splendor, the cathedral holds secrets. Carved discreetly into the stone near the front door is the inscription “O5”—a subtle yet powerful symbol of Austrian resistance against Nazi occupation during WWII. “O” and “5” together stand for Österreich (Austria), a quiet act of defiance in a time of darkness.

Today, St. Stephen’s isn’t just a place of worship—it’s a venue for classical music concerts, a beacon of culture, and a perfect spot to enjoy panoramic views of Vienna from its tower. It’s a cathedral that speaks through art, architecture, and history—and it absolutely earns its place at #13 on my list.

Check out A Vienna Top 10 Must-see List for Food, Activities, Attractions and Landmarks.

#12 St. Vitus Cathedral

Prague, Czech Republic

Highlight: A 600-year masterpiece—Prague’s spiritual and architectural crown

Rising from the heart of Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral is not just the largest church in Prague—it’s the most important spiritual monument in the Czech Republic. Built atop a smaller Romanesque church, it has witnessed coronations, royal burials, and countless religious ceremonies over the centuries.

The cathedral’s story is one of perseverance. Construction began in 1344, when Prague was elevated to an archbishopric. But wars, fires, and political upheaval—especially the Hussite Wars—delayed progress for centuries. Remarkably, the cathedral wasn’t fully completed until 1929, making it a 600-year architectural journey. And yet, even in its unfinished state, it served as a sacred space for worship and imperial events.

One of the first landmarks you’ll see upon entering Prague Castle, St. Vitus immediately commands attention with its soaring Gothic spires and intricate stonework. Inside, the stained glass windows are breathtaking—especially the one designed by Alfons Mucha, a Czech Art Nouveau legend. Don’t miss the St. Wenceslas Chapel, where the tomb of St. Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia, rests in reverent silence.

Behind the altar, you’ll find exquisite sculptures and compartments that tell stories of faith, royalty, and artistry. St. Vitus Cathedral isn’t just a building—it’s a living chronicle of Czech history, devotion, and resilience.

To find out more about how to cover Prague’s Old Town on foot, check out Your Free City Walking Guide in Prague’s Old Town for Bohemian Rhapsody.

#11 St. Mark’s Basilica

Venice, Italy

Highlight: Flooding, sinking… and pigeons—Venice’s beauty is fragile, surreal, and unforgettable

St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) is more than just a cathedral—it’s a shimmering mosaic of history, art, and resilience. Located in Piazza San Marco, often called “Europe’s finest drawing room,” this Italo-Byzantine masterpiece has stood for centuries, weathering fires, floods, and the slow sinking of Venice itself.

Yes, it has the sculptures, frescoes, mosaics, and treasures you’d expect from a grand European cathedral—but what truly sets it apart is its uneven marble floor. The gentle rise and fall of the mosaic tiles aren’t a design flaw—they’re the result of centuries of flooding, creating ripples that resemble waves in the ocean. It’s hauntingly beautiful, a reminder of Venice’s delicate dance with water.

Built in the 9th century, then burned down and rebuilt, the basilica reflects a fascinating blend of Byzantine and Italian craftsmanship. Its domes and arches may even remind you of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul—a testament to the cultural crossroads Venice once was.

And then there are the pigeons—flocks of them swirling around the square, adding a touch of chaos to the serenity. It’s all part of the experience. Venice is sinking, yes, but it’s also soaring in spirit. St. Mark’s Basilica is a symbol of that paradox: fragile yet eternal.

For the photos and more places to see in Venice, check out Run! Run! Venice: How to Conquer the Floating City in One Day!

#10 Kölner Dom

Cologne, Germany

Highlight: The largest church façade in the world—and the ultimate test of your camera lens

Welcome to the Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom—a towering Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline and commands attention the moment you step out of Cologne’s central train station. It’s not just the city’s most iconic landmark—it’s one of the largest cathedrals in the world, and its façade is the largest of any church on Earth.

Construction began in the mid-13th century, and like many grand European cathedrals, it was a labor of centuries. Work on the façade started in the 14th century, but was abruptly halted in 1473, leaving the south tower unfinished—with cranes frozen in time atop the structure for nearly 400 years. It wasn’t until 1842 that construction resumed, and by 1880, the cathedral was finally completed.

For a brief moment in history, Kölner Dom held the title of the tallest building in the world—until the Washington Monument edged it out by just four meters. Still, it remains the tallest twin-spired Gothic church and a marvel of vertical ambition.

But here’s the challenge: photographing it. The façade is so massive and intricate that capturing it in one frame often requires bending backward, lying down, or wielding a seriously wide-angle lens. It’s a photographer’s puzzle—and a traveler’s delight.

Inside, the cathedral is just as grand, with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and a sense of reverence that echoes through its vast halls. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Cologne, or simply stand in awe at its base and let the scale sink in.

For the photos and more places to see in both Düsseldorf and Cologne, check out A Blogger’s Guide of Things to See & Do in Düsseldorf and Cologne.

#9 Hallgrímskirkja

Reykjavík, Iceland

Highlight: A cathedral inspired by lava—not a space shuttle (even if Iceland feels otherworldly)

In a land shaped by fire and ice, Hallgrímskirkja rises like a monument to nature itself. Located in the heart of Reykjavík, this iconic Lutheran cathedral is unlike any other in Europe. While some say it resembles a space shuttle, its design is actually inspired by basalt lava flows—a tribute to Iceland’s dramatic volcanic landscape.

Towering over the city, Hallgrímskirkja is the tallest building in Iceland, perched on a hill and visible from almost anywhere in the capital. Its minimalist, futuristic silhouette stands in stark contrast to the ornate cathedrals of continental Europe, yet it commands just as much awe.

My visit to the northernmost capital in the world was unforgettable. Climbing to the top of the bell tower, I was rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Reykjavík—colorful rooftops, distant glaciers, the shimmering Atlantic Ocean, and the vast Icelandic horizon. It felt like standing on the edge of the Earth.

Hallgrímskirkja, along with Helsinki Cathedral, represents a bold, modern take on sacred architecture in Northern Europe. It’s not just a church—it’s a symbol of Iceland’s unique identity, shaped by nature, resilience, and imagination.

For the photos and more places to see in Venice, check out Exploring Reykjavik: Itinerary from the Capital to Southwest.

#8 Duomo di Milano

Milan, Italy

Highlight: The cathedral with the most statues in the world—an epic in marble

If there’s one image that defines Milan, it’s the stunning façade of the Duomo di Milano. With its forest of spires, intricate carvings, and statues upon statues, it’s one of the most photographed cathedrals in the world—and for good reason. You simply can’t mistake it for anywhere else.

This Gothic masterpiece is the fifth-largest Christian church on Earth, covering over 109,000 square feet—the size of an entire city block. But what truly sets it apart is its sculptural density. With 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles, and 700 decorative figures, it holds the record for the most statues of any building in the world. Every inch tells a story in stone.

Construction began in 1386, commissioned by Bishop Antonio da Saluzzo. But like many grand cathedrals, it was a work in progress for centuries. Political turmoil and financial setbacks delayed its completion, and it wasn’t until Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the façade finished in the early 1800s that the Duomo finally took its full form.

Inside, the grandeur continues—but the real thrill is the rooftop. Climbing the 463 steps (or taking the lift!) rewards you with a panoramic view of Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II just next door, and on clear days, even the snow-capped Alps in the distance. Along the way, you can walk among the spires and statues—an experience that feels like stepping into a marble forest in the sky.

Milan is a city of style and sophistication, and the Duomo is its crown jewel. For more on how to explore it all, check out my post: How to Plan Your Perfect 4-Day Solo Trip to Milan.

#7 Westminster Abbey

London, United Kingdom

Highlight: A sacred stage for royal history—where tradition meets timelessness

In the heart of Westminster, surrounded by London’s most iconic landmarks—Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the River Thames—stands Westminster Abbey, a building that has witnessed the heartbeat of British history for over a thousand years.

Since 1560, it’s no longer an abbey or a cathedral, but a Royal Peculiar—a unique designation meaning it answers directly to the monarch, not the Church of England’s diocese. That royal connection is everything. From coronations to royal weddings, funerals, and burials, Westminster Abbey has been the sacred stage for Britain’s most monumental moments. It’s where kings and queens are crowned, where legends are laid to rest, and where history is quite literally etched into the walls.

Yet, on ordinary days, it opens its doors to people like me. You can attend a daily service, or take a guided tour to marvel at its Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and the tombs of literary giants like Shakespeare, Dickens, and Chaucer.

A quick note: Westminster Cathedral is a completely different building! It’s easy to mix them up, but they’re worlds apart in style and purpose. If you’re curious, check out my post Santander Cycle Challenge Accomplished: London in a Nutshell in One Day — you might spot a photo of it there.

Westminster Abbey isn’t just a church. It’s a living archive of royal legacy, national pride, and spiritual grandeur. And that’s why it earns its place at #7 on my list.

#6 Santa Maria Del Fiore

Florence, Italy

Highlight: The world’s largest cathedral dome crowned with a masterpiece of fresco art

From Michelangelo Square, the view of Florence is breathtaking—but one structure dominates the skyline like no other: the majestic dome of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Florence Cathedral. It’s not just the largest cathedral dome in the world—it’s the largest brick-and-mortar dome ever built. And its construction remains one of architecture’s greatest mysteries.

Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the dome was built over 600 years ago without modern scaffolding or reinforcement techniques. No sketches, no blueprints—just genius. To this day, historians and engineers marvel at how such a feat was even possible.

But the marvel doesn’t stop at the structure. Inside, the dome is adorned with a stunning fresco of the Last Judgment, painted by Brunelleschi’s student, Giorgio Vasari, and later completed by Federico Zuccari. It’s a spiritual and visual journey that unfolds as you climb the 463 steps to the top. Along the way, you get an up-close look at the frescoes—an experience that’s both humbling and exhilarating.

The cathedral’s exterior is equally captivating, with polychrome marble panels in shades of green, pink, and white that shimmer in the Tuscan sun. Florence itself is a treasure trove of Renaissance architecture—cathedrals, churches, palaces, and mansions line every street. You could spend days here and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.

Santa Maria del Fiore isn’t just a cathedral—it’s a testament to human ambition, creativity, and faith. And it absolutely earns its place at #6 on my list. Check out How to Spend Two Days for the Best of Renaissance’s Birthplace, Florence.

Honorary Mentions

Okay, before heading to the top 5 of my picks, let’s list out some of the honorary mentions: Bourges Cathedral and Chartres Cathedral in France, Saint Paul’s Cathedral in London, Salisbury Cathedral, and Durham Cathedral (oh of course!) in England, St. Isaac’s Cathedral in Saint Petersburg, Porto Cathedral (and Tram #28), Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels, Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Moscow, and Matthias Church in Budapest… the list goes on…

#5 Hagia Sophia

Istanbul, Turkey

Highlight: A monument that has weathered 1,400 years of change—and still stands strong. Embrace transformation. Persevere.

Few buildings in the world carry the weight of history like Hagia Sophia. For over 1,400 years, it has stood at the crossroads of empires, faiths, and continents—an enduring symbol of resilience and reinvention.

Originally built as an Orthodox cathedral, it later became a Roman Catholic church, then a mosque, and eventually a museum. Today, while it no longer serves as a place of worship, stepping inside still feels sacred. The air is thick with centuries of devotion, and the architecture reflects a fascinating blend of Christian and Islamic influences—from mosaics of Christ and the Virgin Mary to Arabic calligraphy and mihrabs.

Istanbul itself mirrors this duality. As the only city straddling both Europe and Asia, it’s a living fusion of East and West. Hagia Sophia, perched near the Bosphorus Strait, is its beating heart.

We arrived early, hoping to beat the crowds—but within minutes, the museum was alive with visitors from every corner of the globe. It was a reminder that this place doesn’t just belong to Turkey—it belongs to the world.

Hagia Sophia isn’t just a building. It’s a story of survival, transformation, and timeless beauty. And it’s a powerful reminder that change doesn’t weaken us—it shapes us.

To learn more about must-visit places in Istanbul, check out A Traveler’s Guide to Istanbul: The Best of Asia and Europe.

#4 Notre Dame

Paris, France

Highlight: Paris will always have a place in my heart ❤️

Among Europe’s many Gothic cathedrals, Notre Dame stands as a timeless icon—an architectural symphony of stone, glass, and spirit. Rising from the heart of Île de la Cité, it’s not just a building; it’s the soul of Paris.

Built in the 13th century, every inch of Notre Dame is a work of art. From the majestic north rose window to the haunting gargoyles, the elegant flying buttresses, and the intricate tympanum of the Last Judgment, the cathedral invites you to slow down and truly see. You could spend days exploring its details—and still discover something new.

Each time I’ve visited Paris, I’ve stayed nearby, often catching glimpses of the cathedral from my window. Whether you’re admiring it from a Seine River cruise or climbing its towers for one of the best panoramic views in the city, Notre Dame has a way of deepening your love for Paris with every encounter.

Then came the fire in 2019. Watching the spire collapse and the roof burn was heartbreaking. The damage was severe, and the world mourned. I remember following the news, feeling connected yet helpless. But even in its wounded state, Notre Dame remains majestic. Its spirit endures—and so does my affection for it. That’s why it holds firm at #4 on my list.

And while you’re on Île de la Cité, don’t miss La Sainte-Chapelle. From the outside, it looks almost modest. But step inside, and you’re enveloped in a kaleidoscope of 13th-century stained glass—the most extensive collection of its kind in the world. I was genuinely stunned. It’s one of those places that quietly steals your breath away.

#3 Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Moscow, Russia

Highlight: A kaleidoscope of history wrapped in vibrant domes

Once a cathedral, now a museum, Saint Basil’s is a masterpiece that still whispers its spiritual past through every frescoed wall and winding corridor. Nestled in the heart of Moscow’s Red Square—a place already bursting with monumental Russian architecture—this iconic building somehow manages to steal the spotlight.

At first glance, I was struck by how small it seemed. With the Kremlin looming nearby and the GUM department store stretching grandly across the square, Saint Basil’s felt almost modest. But as the saying goes, great things come in small packages—and this one is packed with wonder.

Step inside, and you won’t find a vast nave or soaring ceilings typical of European cathedrals. Instead, you’re led through a maze of narrow passages connecting a cluster of chapels—eight in total, arranged around a central core. Each chapel is uniquely adorned, showcasing intricate frescoes and priceless artifacts that speak to centuries of devotion and artistry.

The layout is a marvel of symmetry and symbolism: a central church surrounded by four medium-sized chapels aligned with the cardinal directions, and four smaller ones nestled diagonally between them. From any angle, Saint Basil’s is a visual feast—its onion domes painted in dazzling colors and patterns, each one different, each one unforgettable.

Though it no longer serves as a place of worship, the spirit of Saint Basil’s endures. It’s not just a museum—it’s a mosaic of Russian history, faith, and architectural genius.

See the photos of Red Square and get more travel tips on visiting Moscow, check out How to Spend 4 Days Discovering Moscow’s Best with the City Pass and What You May Not Know about the Magnificent Onion Domes in Russia

#2 Saint Peter’s Cathedral

Vatican, Italy

Highlight: It was once a cathedral, and the LARGEST church in the world. Period.

If you believe that size isn’t everything… well, I’m about to completely contradict myself.

Because nothing—and I mean nothing—prepared me for the sheer scale of St. Peter’s Basilica. Once the cathedral of Rome (yes, technically it’s not a cathedral anymore, but it once held that title), it still holds the record as the largest church in the world by volume. To put it in perspective: it’s four times the size of the second-largest cathedral. Four. Times.

Walking in, I literally gasped. My eyes darted in every direction, trying to take in the towering ceilings, the endless sculptures, the intricate mosaics. Every inch is art. Every corner tells a story. I was spinning around so much I half-worried I’d leave with a neck brace.

There are thousands of masterpieces inside—far too many to absorb in one visit. Honestly, I’d go back to Rome just to spend a full day (or three) appreciating them one by one.

And that’s not even touching on the rest of the Vatican experience—sending a postcard from the world’s smallest country, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain just a short walk away, and soaking in centuries of history at every turn.

About my trip to Rome in 24 hours – Check out Run! Run! Rome: How to Conquer the Eternal City in One Day.

#1 Sagrada Família

Barcelona, Spain

Highlight: If you have passion, you get inspired.

Antoni Gaudí’s architecture has always fascinated me—his work feels alive. “Organic” is the perfect word to describe it. He once said a building should be like a human body: the structure is flesh and bones, and the exterior is its skin. That philosophy shaped everything he created, giving his designs a natural flow and a touch of unpredictability.

Among his many masterpieces, the Sagrada Família stands out—not just for its scale, but for its soul. Though it’s no longer a cathedral by definition, it once held that title, and its grandeur still rivals any sacred space in the world. It’s been under construction for over 135 years, and might need another 20 to be fully complete. Yet even unfinished, it’s breathtaking.

What captivates me most are the two façades: the Nativity and the Passion. They’re like visual opposites—one ornate and overflowing with life, the other stark and solemn. The Nativity Façade celebrates the birth of Christ, with every inch covered in sculpted flora, fauna, and saints. It’s busy, joyful, and deeply symbolic. The Passion Façade, on the other hand, tells the story of Christ’s suffering through bold, modern sculptures that feel raw and exposed.

Facing northeast and southwest, these façades mirror life and death, softness and severity, celebration and sacrifice. Gaudí didn’t just build a church—he built a narrative carved in stone.

Check out Gaudi’s amazing works in Barcelona and more photos at the 10 Greatest Gaudí Sites in Barcelona.

Must-see list of La Sagrada Familia:

1. Passion Facade:
   Among the Fachada de la Pasion’s stand-out features are the angled columns, dramatic scenes from Jesus’ last hours, an extraordinary rendering of the Last Supper, and a bronze door that reads like a sculptured book. But the most surprising view is from inside the door on the extreme right.
2. Main Nave
   The majestic Nave Principal showcases Gaudi’s use of tree motifs for columns to support the domes: he described this space as a forest. But it’s the skylights that give the nave its luminous quality, even more so once the scaffolding is removed and light will flood down onto the apse and the main altar from the skylight 75m above the floor.
3. Side Nave and Nativity Transept
   Although beautiful in its own right with windows that project light into the interior, this is the perfect place to view the sculpted tree-like columns and get an overall perspective of the main nave. Turn around and you’re confronted with the inside of the Nativity Facade, an alternative view that most visitors miss: the stained-glass windows are superb.
4. Nativity Facade
   The Fachada del Nacimiento is Gaudi’s grand hymn to Creation. Begin by viewing it front-on from a distance, then draw close enough (but to one side) to make out the details of its sculpted figures. The complement to the finely wrought details is the majesty of the four parabolic towers that for the sky and are topped by Venetian stained glasses.
5. The Model of Colonia Guell
   among the many original models used by Gaudi in the Museu Gaudi, the most interesting is the church at Colonia Guell. From the side you can, thanks to the model’s ingenious use of rope and cloth, visualize the harmony and beauty of the interior.