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Sacred sites around the world have a distinct spiritual atmosphere. No matter your faith, you will feel this palpable spiritual feeling at such holy places. Many people want to learn about the top sacred places around the world that every traveler should visit to have an enlightening experience. It teaches you a lot about different faiths and scriptures that will make you feel a surge of spirituality.
Every year, many US travelers embark on the journey to find and visit sacred places worldwide. If you are curious too, this can be your year to make your dream come true. Here are some holy places that might inspire you.
10 Sacred Places to Visit Around the Globe
1. Makkah
Let’s start with the holiest city in Islam, Makkah in Saudi Arabia, which millions of Muslims visit annually for pilgrimage. The Holy Kaaba, the symbolic house of the Almighty, is located in the heart of this city. This is also the place from where Islam originated. Only Muslims are allowed to enter the sacred city of Makkah. If you are a Muslim who yearns to be in this spiritual city, it is time that you book Umrah packages from the USA and start planning your spiritual retreat. You will surely get a chance to have the ultimate faith revival and the most enlightening experience in this incredible city.
2. The Vatican City
Catholics don’t need an introduction to the Vatican City in Rome. Being one of the most sacred cities in the world, it attracts countless devout Christians and tourists. There is nothing like the grandeur and spiritual significance of the St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel for Christians. An example of the classic Renaissance architecture and last resting place of the first Pope, the St. Peter’s Basilica is a true delight to visit. Let’s not forget that the adjacent Sistine Chapel is also a sight to behold. You will surely be awed by its artistic brilliance featuring Michelangelo’s frescoes.
3. Varanasi
Visiting one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world is never a bad idea. This ancient and sacred Hindu pilgrimage site is a haven for many. The holy Ganges River surrounds the glorious temple. Hindus come here to bathe in the ghats of the Ganges River to purify themselves and perform their pilgrimage rituals. They also believe that dying here is a source of salvation.
4. Jerusalem
Jerusalem is a sacred city for three monotheistic religions: Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. It surely deserves a place on this list. You will see Jews on one side praying and indulging in rituals while Muslims on the other side pray at their sacred sites. This is undoubtedly an enlightening experience that teaches you about different faiths.
5. The Golden Temple
The central religious place of the Sikhs is, in all meaning, one of the most welcoming religious places in the world. With its golden facade, this glorious temple attracts and welcomes people of all faiths and from all walks of life. It is one of the best ways to convey the message of unity that is the basis of Sikhism to the world.
6. Lourdes
Catholics visit Lourdes widely because of its religious significance. Over five million Christians visit to take advantage of the spring waters surrounding this shrine every year. This water is known for healing the bodies and souls. This Marian site has been essential to Christians since 1858, when the Virgin Mary appeared to a 14-year-old peasant girl.
7. Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat was initially built as a Hindu temple in Cambodia dedicated to Vishnu. However, it was later declared a Buddhist temple. This temple is the perfect place to glimpse the glorious Khmer Empire. Prepare to be stunned by the intricate details of this architectural masterpiece.
8. Madinah
We have already discussed the holiest city in Islam, Madinah, which is also the second most sacred site. Muslims believe they can experience unmatched peace and serenity in this city. From the Prophet’s last resting place in Masjid an-Nabwi to the first mosque in Islam, this city has many spiritual and historical gems.
9. Mount Kailash
Mount Kailash in Tibet is sacred for many people who believe in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, and those of the Bon religion. It is a significant pilgrimage site for their faith. Even though you must not climb this mountain, people make a kilometer circuit around it as their pilgrimage.
10. Shwedagon Pagoda
A prominent Buddhist pilgrimage site, Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar, leaves everyone in awe. It is believed to house relics of the historical Buddha, Gautama, and numerous other Buddhas. Many Buddhists come here to indulge in various religious activities and seek spiritual guidance.
Summing Up
Every curious and spiritual individual wants to learn about the top sacred places worldwide that every traveler should visit. This makes us question the pilgrimage sites of other faiths, and many of us want to explore them all to learn about their religious significance and different religions. You will indeed have a great time visiting numerous sacred places around the globe.
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