The 20 Oldest and Most Beautiful Churches in the World

What remains of this temple is an impressive monument to ancient history. Historians have not yet reached a consensus on the exact date when construction began, but it is estimated to have started between 20 and 10 B.C. Today, tourists can admire how well-preserved it is, particularly the inscription dedicated to “Rome and Augustus Caesar.” 

Italy is renowned for preserving its historical heritage, and the Pantheon is no exception. The current building is the second reconstruction; construction of the present structure—the third—began around 125 AD. However, the original building dated back to 25 BC, during the reign of Augustus.

Although not strictly speaking a church, the Catacombs of Callixtus served as the official cemetery of the Church of Rome. Even today, they are considered a major historical site, with original Greek inscriptions still visible on the tombs found there, some of which belonged to several popes from the 2nd to the 4th century.

It may seem modest, but this monastery is steeped in history and beauty. Historians estimate that construction began in 239 A.D., and it is generally considered one of the oldest religious buildings in the world. Much of the original structure has been damaged over the centuries, but the current building still retains elements dating back to the 7th century. 

Have you ever wondered where the first house church was located? Believe it or not, they did indeed exist back then, and the church at Dura-Europos is considered the first one that can be identified. But that’s not all: it also houses the oldest Christian frescoes ever discovered, several of which are still visible on its walls today. 

This church may no longer be what it once was, but that does not diminish its significance. The church in Aqaba stood for a good hundred years before an earthquake destroyed it, leaving it buried until a group of archaeologists unearthed it in the 1990s. It would be easy to call this site “disappointing,” but it is the oldest known Christian church built for that purpose, and it remains a sight to behold.

Originally built around 298 A.D., this ancient monastery still boasts exceptional architecture and works of art today. It underwent a meticulous restoration in the early 2000s, with Egypt investing several million dollars to complete the project. 

If you’re planning a trip to Armenia, be sure to visit the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the oldest in the world. In addition to its impressive architecture, it houses several sacred relics, such as the Holy Lance and even a fragment of Noah’s Ark.

This Croatian cathedral is still in very good condition after all these years, especially since it has never undergone any major renovations. In fact, it is considered the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world still in use in its original state, and tourists can explore its architecture, original paintings, and treasury.  

Whether you visit the arch or the rotunda, history buffs and believers alike will find something to enjoy. The rotunda was originally built in 306 AD and converted into a Christian church in the 4th century. As for the arch, construction began in 298 AD, and it still retains its original marble sculptures today. 

Just behind these teal doors are works of art and architectural elements dating back to the building’s original construction in 309 A.D. Although it was not consecrated as a church until 527 A.D., tourists can still admire its marble sculptures, mosaics, and chapels.  

No, not that Hagia Sophia—even though that one is also in Turkey and is just as impressive. This time, we’re talking about a slightly older building, originally built in 325. It has undergone several transformations: first a church during the Byzantine era, then a mosque, then a museum, before becoming a mosque once again.  

Who doesn’t appreciate the beauty of the masonry in a historic church? This building is just as charming on the inside as it is on the outside, with its incredible arches and works of art, and it is one of the oldest religious buildings in the region.  

Stepping inside this monastery is like stepping into the very heart of history—not only because of its architecture, but also thanks to the sacred relics it houses. Among these, visitors can admire a fragment of the Holy Cross, one of the nails from Calvary, and even a piece of rope said to have been used to tie Jesus to the cross. 

Not much remains of the original structure, but that does not detract from the splendor of the current basilica. Construction of the ancient St. Peter’s Basilica began around 333 A.D., and visitors can still walk on part of the original foundations. As if that weren’t enough, Michelangelo was also one of the principal architects of its reconstruction in the 16th century.   

This monastery is probably the oldest of the four monasteries in Scetes, and it has preserved most of its original architecture, which dates back to 335 A.D. Sometimes referred to as the “Monastery of Baramus,” it allows visitors to explore its works of art and architecture, as well as its sacred relics. 

Magnificent arcades and towers adorn this monastery, originally built in 397. It is one of the oldest Syriac Orthodox monasteries still standing in the world, and faced with such exceptional architecture, you won’t know where to look first.

Founded in 360 A.D., this monastery has been home to several notable figures, including saints and Church Fathers. It is particularly worth noting that the crypts of Saint John the Baptist and the prophet Elisha were discovered during restoration work.  

This basilica is the oldest in many respects: it is one of the earliest examples of Armenian architecture and one of the oldest Christian monuments in the country still standing. Although it is now little more than a ruin, visitors can still admire its chapels and finely carved stone sculptures. 

Experts believe that this picturesque basilica was built in the 4th century, and a visit to the chapel is all it takes to see that for yourself. It may not feature the same arches or marble sculptures as some religious buildings, but it nonetheless retains its stone architecture and historical significance.