Olusegun Taiye James
In the year 2025, the largest cathedrals in the world continue to be regarded as gigantic triumphs of architectural mastery and spiritual devotion. Not only do these holy buildings, which span multiple countries and centuries, function as places of prayer, but they also serve as emblems of cultural legacy and artistic quality. The following is a comprehensive summary of the top ten largest churches in the world, ordered according to the amount of interior space:
List Of Top 10 Largest Churches In The World 2025
1. St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican City)
St. Peter’s Basilica, which can be found in the center of Vatican City, is the largest and most venerated cathedral in the entire globe. It is also the most famous church in the world. As of the year 2025, it continues to be a shining example of Catholicism, continuing to attract millions of tourists, pilgrims, and art enthusiasts each year. It continues to be the focal point of the Vatican and a marvel of Renaissance design, and it is well-known not just for its enormous size but also for the profound historical, religious, and architectural significance it possesses.
2. Cathedral Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady Aparecida (Aparecida, Brazil)
The Cathedral Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady Aparecida is located at Aparecida, on the Brazilian coast. The Cathedral Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady Aparecida, which can be found in Aparecida, São Paulo, Brazil, holds the distinction of being the second-biggest church in the world and the largest church in the Asia-Pacific region. This colossal basilica is not only a significant religious marvel, but it is also an important cultural and national icon. It is dedicated to Our Lady of Aparecida, who is considered to be the patroness of Brazil.
3. Cathedral of St. John the Divine (New York, NY)
One of the largest Christian cathedrals in terms of volume is the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, which can be found in the Morningside Heights district of Manhattan, New York City. It is the largest Anglican cathedral in the world. The cathedral is a powerful symbol of spiritual inclusivity, artistic expression, and architectural grandeur in one of the most dynamic cities in the world. It is frequently referred to as “St. John the Unfinished” due to the fact that its building has been ongoing since the 19th century.
4. Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń (Licheń Stary, Poland)
One of the largest and most contemporary Catholic churches in the world is the Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń, which can be found in the little village of Licheń Stary, which is situated in the central region of Warsaw, Poland. This enormous basilica, which was finished in the early 21st century, has quickly become a prominent pilgrimage site and a symbol of national devotion. It is known for being a remarkable expression of Poland’s deeply established Catholic legacy.
5. Milan Cathedral (Milan, Italy)
It is widely acknowledged that the Duomo di Milano, also referred to as the Milan Cathedral, is among the most recognizable and awe-inspiring landmarks in Italy and Europe. This magnificent Gothic cathedral, which can be found in the center of Milan, is not only the largest church in Italy (with the exception of Vatican City), but it is also considered to be one of the most remarkable specimens of Gothic architecture available anywhere in the world. Furthermore, in the year 2025, it continues to be an important emblem of Milan’s extensive artistic, cultural, and religious heritage.
6. Seville Cathedral (Seville, Spain)
Not only is the Seville Cathedral, sometimes referred to as the Catedral de la Santa María de la Sede, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, but it is also considered to be one of the most historically and architecturally significant religious institutions in Spain. It is a tribute to the city’s rich history, artistic legacy, and religious devotion, and it is located in the center of Seville, which is located in Andalusia. A significant pilgrimage site, a popular tourist destination, and a symbol of Seville’s identity, the cathedral continues to be a significant attraction in the year 2025.
7. Basilica of the Holy Trinity (Fátima, Portugal)
Fátima, Portugal is home to the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, also known as the Basilica da Santíssima Trindade. This church is widely recognized as one of the most significant and contemporary Catholic churches in the entire world. It is a significant religious and pilgrimage site that serves as a monument to the unwavering faith of millions of Catholics, particularly those who travel to Fátima in order to pay their respects to the apparition of Our Lady of Fátima. It was a desire to create a sanctuary that could accommodate the growing number of pilgrims that visit the site each year, and the construction of the basilica symbolizes both the spiritual legacy of Fátima and the need to create such a sanctuary.
8. Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls (Rome, Italy)
In addition to being one of the four great papal basilicas in Rome, the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, also known as the Basilica di San Paolo fuori le Mura, is also considered to be one of the most significant holy places in the Christian religion. It is a magnificent monument that is located on the outskirts of Rome and is of major importance in terms of history, spirituality, and architecture. Despite the passage of time, it continues to be an important pilgrimage destination, a representation of the early Christian Church, and a demonstration of the enduring legacy that Saint Paul has left behind.
9. Liverpool Cathedral (Liverpool, England)
In addition to being one of the largest and most spectacular cathedrals in the United Kingdom, the Liverpool Cathedral, which is also known as the Cathedral Church of Christ in Liverpool, is a breathtaking example of Gothic Revival architecture. This magnificent monument, which can be found in the center of Liverpool, England, serves as a testament to the religious, historical, and architectural history that the city in England possesses. It is still a significant cultural and spiritual monument in the year 2025, and it continues to draw tourists and pilgrims from all over the world.
10. Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of the Pillar (Zaragoza, Spain)
The Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of the Pillar, also known as the Basílica del Pilar, is located in Zaragoza, Spain. It is widely considered to be one of the most significant religious structures in Spain, and it is also a big draw for visitors and pilgrims alike. Among the oldest and most venerated Marian shrines in the world, this magnificent basilica is closely connected to Spain’s Catholic legacy. It is also one of the oldest basilicas in the world. The people of Zaragoza and beyond continue to view it as a symbol of their faith, their history, and their cultural identity in the year 2025.
