7. The Cadet Chapel (Colorado Springs, USA)
This church may look like it’s from a galaxy far, far away, but it actually houses many chapels for the United States Air Force Academy. Regarded as a controversial design when it was completed in 1962, the Cadet Chapel is now a highly regarded example of modernist architecture. The Protestant Chapel is located on the main floor (pictured above) with several other chapels throughout dedicated to those practicing Catholicism, Judaism, Buddhism, and more.
8. Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe (Le Puy-en-Velay, France)
Built in 969 on a volcanic plug 279 feet high, Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe is the oldest chapel in Le Puy-en-Velay. This Catholic Cathedral is reached by 268 steps carved into the rock and it was built to celebrate the return from the pilgrimage of Saint James. Modern pilgrims still make the trek to have their walking sticks blessed.
9. San Miguel Del Fai (Cataluña, Spain)
This monastery is located in a well-preserved natural environment framed by rocky cliffs, which geographically separates the region of Vallès Oriental in the sub region of Moianès. The 11th-century building was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural landmark in 1988.
10. Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira (Cundinamarca, Colombia)
Built within the tunnels of a salt mine 200 meters underground, the Salt Cathedral is a very popular tourist destination and a place of pilgrimage in Colombia. It is considered one of the most notable achievements of Colombian architecture, representing for the Colombian people a valuable cultural, environmental, and religious patrimony. The temple at the bottom has three sections, representing the birth, life, and death of Jesus.
11. La Iglesia Skate (Asturias, Spain)
Though technically no longer a place of worship, this abandoned church was given new life from a group called the Church Brigade. They utilized online fundraising and a Red Bull sponsorship to salvage the building and turn it into a public skate park dubbed Kaos Temple. With the unique location and colorful geometric figures, The Skate Church is a must see for skate culture lovers and contemporary art enthusiasts.
