Around the world, significant houses of worship tell the story of human’s history with the divine — and with each other.
Visiting historic religious sites can offer groups a unique blend of cultural immersion, artistic appreciation and spiritual exploration. Steeped in centuries of tradition, these places illuminate the beliefs, practices and architectural styles of their time and place. Beyond their unique religious significance, these historical landmarks preserve the stories of a faith’s past, forging a tangible connection to the believers who worshiped (and continue to worship) there.
Here are five diverse and fascinating religious heritage sites to consider for your group.
Touro Synagogue
Newport, Rhode Island
A historic gem in Newport, Rhode Island, Touro Synagogue dates to 1763 and is one of the oldest continually active synagogues on the continent. Jewish immigrants first arrived in the mid- to late 17th century, having first migrated from Europe to South America and the Caribbean. They found safety from persecution in the Rhode Island colony, where they were accepted and allowed to conduct business as “resident strangers” — although not allowed to vote or hold political office.
The synagogue’s Palladian architecture was one of the first examples of that style in North America. Touro played an important role in American history as well. After his first visit to Rhode Island as president, George Washington penned a reply to a letter written by a leader of the local Jewish congregation. In that 1790 letter, Washington stated the new government’s commitment to freedom of religion, an entitlement the president viewed as an “inherent natural right.” This letter cemented Touro’s place in American history and marked a significant milestone in the acceptance of religious diversity in the United States. It is read annually in a ceremony at the synagogue each summer.
Today, Touro Synagogue remains an active place of worship and a popular visitor destination. A trip to this national historic site includes a history presentation and interactive exhibits. Groups can explore the synagogue’s historic interior and walk the beautiful grounds while learning about the Jewish community in Newport and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of this important landmark. Groups of up to 50 can be accommodated for walking tours, which should be reserved in advance.
First African Baptist Church
Savannah, Georgia
A visit to Savannah, Georgia’s First African Baptist Church offers more than just a glimpse into the past. It’s an opportunity to connect with the rich history of the African American community in Savannah and the oldest continual African American congregation in the country. First African Baptist Church was established in 1773 and is older than the United States. Nestled in the heart of Savannah, the current house of worship was built by free and enslaved congregants, and the simple but elegant gray brick structure was completed in 1859. Many original elements still grace the church, including the balcony pews, light fixtures and baptismal pool. Holes in the floor are in the shape of an African prayer symbol known as a BaKongo Cosmogram, which represents birth, life, death and rebirth.
The church served as an important stop on the Underground Railroad, harboring people escaping slavery on their way north to freedom. It was pivotal during the Civil Rights Movement as well, and Martin Luther King, Jr. preached from its pulpit. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the church, its history and its ongoing commitment to social justice. Tours are available Monday through Saturday and should be reserved in advance.
Wartburg Castle
Eisenach, Germany
Perched atop a lofty hill in Eisenach, Germany, Wartburg Castle dates to 1097 and is steeped in both secular and religious history. Medieval Christians made the fortress a place of pilgrimage, seeking blessings and miracles at the castle’s chapel, a shrine dedicated to St. Elizabeth of Hungary. The Hungarian princess was betrothed to Count Ludwig III in 1211 at the age of 4 and married at age 14. Widowed by 20, she devoted her life to the poor before dying at 25.
But it is the association with Martin Luther, the German priest who became the seminal figure in the Protestant Reformation, for which the castle is most famous. After refusing to repudiate his writings in 1521, Luther sought refuge at Wartburg, spending almost a year in hiding. During this time, he began translating the original Greek New Testament into German. The room where he did his work is preserved just as it was in that time. There are lovely views of the surrounding countryside from the battlements and stunning interiors throughout, along with frescoes, portraits, relics and important historical artifacts. Don’t miss the three-story palace, which is only accessible on a guided tour. Groups of up to 50 can be accommodated, and private after-hours tours are available.
The Vatican
Rome
From the Sistine Chapel to the Tomb of St. Peter, the history and treasures of Christianity and the Catholic Church are on display in the Vatican City State, a sovereign country located within the modern city of Rome. At the center of the compound is St. Peter’s Basilica, built above the tomb of the first pontiff, and its famed square, where the current pope addresses large crowds. A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, the basilica was completed in 1615 and is the largest religious building on the planet.
Two millennia of religious significance, along with priceless ancient artifacts, are housed within the Vatican Museums, comprising an invaluable repository of human art and culture. Most visitors will want to gaze upon Michelangelo’s gloriously frescoed Sistine Chapel and his “Pietà,” which depicts the Virgin Mary holding the body of Jesus. The Gregorian Egyptian Museum will be a must for Egyptologists. Founded by Pope Gregory XVI in 1839, it contains nine rooms of rare Egyptian artifacts, including papyrus scrolls, statuary and mummies. Knees and shoulders must be covered, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Only 40 minutes away, Castel Gandolfo, the pope’s summer residence, is a pleasant visit. Set on the shore of Lake Albano, the papal palace is open to the public and has 135 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, as well as an observatory.
Basilica Notre-Dame
Montreal, Canada
A masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, the Basilica Notre-Dame is known as Montreal’s “Mother Church” and was declared a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1982. Construction on the original stone structure began in 1672, but the congregation soon outgrew the building’s capacity. Construction on the new church began in 1824, and Notre-Dame became the largest house of worship in North America for the next 50 years. Highlights of the church include its magnificent carved altarpiece, striking stained-glass windows and enormous bells.
In addition to its spiritual role, the basilica is a significant cultural site. Its famous Casavant organ — with 7,000 pipes — and impeccable acoustics make it a desired venue for concerts and choirs. Luciano Pavarotti recorded a Christmas concert here, and the Montreal Symphony Orchestra performs regularly.
Currently, there are no guided tours, but 24 stations with informational panels can be found throughout the church during a sightseeing visit. In the evenings, the immersive AURA experience combines light and music to create a stunning 45-minute show.
