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Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland

If you’ve something a little different in mind, Iceland’s Hallgrímskirkja is one of the most unique—and beautiful—churches in the world.


The construction of this Lutheran church began in 1945, in the city of Reykjavík, and was completed 40 years later, in 1986. Built to resemble the native landscape of Iceland, it is one of the tallest structures in the country, making it visible throughout the city. It was, in fact, originally meant to be a shorter structure, but the leaders of the Church of Iceland wanted a spire which would dwarf the cathedral of the Catholic Church in Iceland.


Hallgrímskirkja owes its unique aesthetic to the expressionist architectural movement—it is one of very few churches in the world built in this style. Its tall steeple and sweeping wings are an awe-inspiring sight, so if you ever find yourself in Iceland, make sure you pay this church a visit.