Top 10 Largest Churches in the World by Size & Capacity

Churches have long been symbols of faith, history, and architectural grandeur. Across the world, some churches stand out not just for their spiritual significance but also for their massive size. From the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to the breathtaking Milan Cathedral, these churches are among the largest ever built, accommodating thousands of worshippers and visitors. Whether measured by capacity, area, or structure size, here are the top 10 largest churches in the world that continue to inspire millions.

Here are some of the largest churches in the world, measured by capacity, area, and structure size:

1. St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican City)  

• Capacity: ~60,000 people

• Area: 15,160 m²

• The largest church in the world and the center of the Catholic Church, located in Vatican City. Built over the tomb of Saint Peter, it is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture designed by Michelangelo, Bernini, and Bramante.

2. Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida (Brazil)

• Capacity: ~45,000 people

• Area: 12,000 m²

• The largest church in South America, this Catholic basilica in Aparecida, Brazil, is a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

3. Milan Cathedral (Italy)  

• Capacity: ~40,000 people

• Area: 11,700 m²

• Also known as Duomo di Milano, this Gothic cathedral took nearly 600 years to complete and is famous for its stunning spires and sculptures.

4. Seville Cathedral (Spain)  

• Capacity: ~25,000 people

• Area: 11,520 m²

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this church is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus and is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.

5. Cathedral of Saint John the Divine (USA)

• Capacity: ~20,000 people

• Area: 11,200 m²

• Located in New York City, this is the largest Anglican cathedral and is still unfinished, earning the nickname “St. John the Unfinished”.

6. Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls (Italy)

• Capacity: ~30,000 people

• Area: 10,800 m²

• One of Rome’s major basilicas, built over the burial site of Saint Paul.

7. Liverpool Cathedral (UK)

• Capacity: ~3,500 people

• Area: 9,687 m²

• The largest church in the UK, known for its Neo-Gothic design and one of the tallest bell towers in the world.

8. Church of the Holy Trinity (Portugal)

• Capacity: ~9,000 people

• Area: 8,700 m²

• Located in Fátima, this modern church is one of the largest pilgrimage sites in the world.

9. Basilica of Our Lady of Lichen (Poland)

• Capacity: ~7,000 people

• Area: 8,500 m²

• A massive Polish basilica with stunning architecture and one of the tallest domes in the world.

10. Ulm Minster (Germany)

• Capacity: ~2,000 people

• Area: 8,260 m²

• Holds the record for the tallest church spire in the world at 161.5 meters.

These churches stand as architectural, historical, and spiritual landmarks, drawing millions of visitors and pilgrims every year.