Christmas 2024: Did You Know About These 10 Oldest Churches In The World?

Dura-Europos Church, SyriaDura-Europos Church, built around 233 AD, is considered the oldest known Christian church. Originally a private home, it was converted into a place of worship. Excavations in the 1920s and 1930s revealed frescoes, which are some of the earliest Christian paintings.Aqaba Church, JordanThe Aqaba Church, constructed between 293 and 303 AD, is recognised by Guinness World Records as the oldest purpose-built Christian church. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 363 AD and rediscovered in 1998, offering valuable insights into early Christian architecture.Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion, EthiopiaThe Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion, built in the mid-4th century AD, is believed to house the Ark of the Covenant. This church has been rebuilt several times, with the current structure still in use, making it a significant site for Ethiopian Christianity.Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, PalestineThe Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, built in 325 AD, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site traditionally considered the birthplace of Jesus. Currently under reconstruction, it serves multiple Christian denominations and remains a major pilgrimage site.St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican CitySt. Peter’s Basilica, originally commissioned by Constantine I and built between 326 and 360 AD, is one of the most renowned churches in the world. The current structure, completed in the 16th century, houses Michelangelo’s Pietà and the Tomb of St. Peter, making it a major site for Catholicism.Cathedral of Trier, GermanyGermany's Cathedral of Trier, constructed in 340 AD, is the oldest cathedral in the country. It holds relics such as the Holy Nail and the Seamless Robe of Jesus and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting its historical and religious significance.Basilica of San Lorenzo, ItalyThe Basilica of San Lorenzo in Milan, began construction in 364 AD and is one of the oldest buildings in Milan. At the time of its completion, it was the largest circular church in the world and inspired the design of Hagia Sophia, showcasing its architectural influence.Etchmiadzin Cathedral, ArmeniaThe Etchmiadzin Cathedral, with construction starting in 483 AD, is the oldest cathedral in Armenia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It serves as a major shrine for Armenian Christians and is central to the Armenian Apostolic Church.Hagia Sophia, TürkiyeThe Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, built between 532 and 537 AD, was originally a Christian cathedral. It has also served as a mosque and is now a museum. For over 1,000 years, it was the largest Christian church, highlighting its historical and architectural importance.Monastery of Saint Anthony, EgyptMonastery of Saint Anthony, built in 356 AD, is one of the oldest monasteries in the world. Located in the Eastern Desert, it was partially destroyed in the 11th century and rebuilt to be a major site for Coptic Orthodox Christians.Christmas 2024: 10 Traditional Dishes To Try This Festive SeasonRead More