10 The oldest churches in the world

 The oldest churches have long stood as some of the most awe-inspiring structures in human history.

Since ancient times, civilizations have gathered in these sacred spaces for worship, and many of these remarkable buildings still endure today, preserving the legacies of faith and culture.

Exploring the history of these churches is like stepping back in time. Below, we present some of the oldest churches in the world, each with its own unique story and historical significance.

10. Hagia Sophia (532 – 537 AD, Istanbul, Turkey)

Once the largest Christian church for over a thousand years, Hagia Sophia was built under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Over time, it has served as a Greek Orthodox cathedral, a Roman Catholic cathedral, and an imperial mosque. Today, this iconic structure stands as a museum, drawing millions of visitors annually.

9. Etchmiadzin Cathedral (483 AD, Vagharshapat, Armenia)

As the first cathedral built in ancient Armenia, Etchmiadzin Cathedral holds the title of the oldest Christian cathedral still in existence. It remains a major Christian shrine and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from across the globe.

8. Basilica of San Lorenzo, Milan (364 AD, Milan, Italy)

One of Milan’s oldest surviving buildings, the Basilica of San Lorenzo was once the largest circular church in the world. Its architectural influence extended to the design of Hagia Sophia. Despite numerous reconstructions, it remains an active place of worship.

7. Cathedral of Trier (340 AD, Trier, Germany)

Germany’s oldest cathedral, the Cathedral of Trier, was built on the remains of a Roman site. It houses relics believed to include the Seamless Robe of Jesus and one of the Holy Nails from the Crucifixion, making it a site of deep religious significance.

6. St. Peter’s Basilica (326 – 360 AD, Vatican City)

One of the most famous churches in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica was originally commissioned by Emperor Constantine I. It became the site of Charlemagne’s coronation as Holy Roman Emperor. The current basilica, built in the 16th century, retains elements of the original structure and houses the Tomb of St. Peter.

5. Church of the Nativity (325 AD, Bethlehem, Palestine)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Church of the Nativity is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It is home to multiple monastic communities, including Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, Roman Catholic, and Syriac Orthodox denominations.

4. Mar Sarkas (Pre-325 AD, Maalula, Syria)

This ancient monastery and church, dedicated to St. Sergius, predates 325 AD. It holds a collection of early Christian icons and remains a place of pilgrimage and worship. The site also hosts the annual Festival of Mar Sarkas on October 7th.

3. Aqaba Church (293 – 303 AD, Aqaba, Jordan)

Rediscovered in 1998, Aqaba Church is one of the oldest surviving church structures. Archaeological findings indicate that it originally housed around 60 worshipers. Though it was destroyed in an earthquake in 363 AD, its ruins offer a glimpse into early Christian history.

2. Megiddo Church (Late 3rd to Early 4th Century AD, Tel Megiddo, Israel)

Located beneath a modern prison, Megiddo Church was first discovered by inmates in 2005. Excavations revealed an early Christian mosaic featuring Greek inscriptions and the Christian fish symbol. Experts believe the site was repurposed as a church in the early 4th century.

1. Dura-Europos Church (Approximately 233 AD, Dura-Europos, Syria)

Regarded as the world’s oldest known church, Dura-Europos Church was originally a private residence before being converted into a place of worship. Although in ruins today, the site was extensively excavated in the 1920s and 1930s, and its frescoes are preserved at Yale University.