Buzz
Religious architectural marvels like the Brihadeeswara Temple, Shwedagon Pagoda, and Dome of the Rock are not only revered as sacred sites by worshippers but also attract countless tourists who come to admire their unique beauty. These structures hold profound religious value and feature extraordinary, captivating designs. Below are five of the most awe-inspiring religious buildings in the world, which draw millions of visitors each year, as recommended by Mytour.
Brihadeeswarar Temple, India
The Brihadeeswarar Temple is one of India's most significant religious sites. Built in 1010 during the reign of King Raja Raja Chola I, the temple stands at an impressive 66 meters tall, making it one of the tallest temples in the world. This monumental religious structure still holds many secrets that scientists have yet to solve, such as how ancient builders managed to transport over 70 tons of stone from 60 km away to construct the temple and how the 20-ton Nandi bull statue was placed on a single slab of stone at the temple's summit. This architectural marvel defies the understanding of modern-day humans. Visitors, including international tourists, can admire the intricate carvings on the colossal temple walls or relax in the expansive 320,000-square-meter temple grounds.
Dome of the Rock Temple, Jerusalem
Golden Pagoda, Myanmar
The Golden Pagoda in Myanmar is one of the most monumental and ancient architectural marvels in the world. Built over 2,500 years ago, it sits atop the Singuttara Hill in present-day Yangon. This sacred site houses the precious religious relics, including eight strands of the Buddha's hair. The pagoda complex includes 1,000 smaller pagodas surrounding the majestic central stupa. The golden spire of the pagoda is decorated with more than 5,000 stunning diamonds, 2,000 sparkling rubies, and intricate golden leaf carvings around the structure. This is a must-visit destination for tourists traveling to Myanmar.
St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican
The Vatican, a sacred site for Christianity, is renowned for its stunning and unique architecture. One of its most notable landmarks is St. Peter's Basilica, built in the 16th century. Today, it stands as one of the four largest churches in the Vatican, celebrated for its magnificent Renaissance architecture. The basilica boasts the world's highest dome, soaring over 130 meters, and is decorated with exquisite marble, intricate reliefs, and numerous famous sculptures. It attracts the highest number of domestic and international visitors in the Vatican.
Lotus Temple, India
The Lotus Temple is uniquely designed to resemble a blooming lotus flower and is located in New Delhi. The temple rises 35 meters in height and covers an expansive area of approximately 105,000 square meters, with a capacity to hold up to 2,500 people. The structure consists of three wings, each containing nine lotus petals. Surrounding the temple are nine ponds shaped like lotus leaves, creating a dazzling and vibrant spectacle.
