As Christianity continues to be one of the world’s most practiced religions, certain countries stand out for their sheer number of churches.
When it comes to the expression of faith and spirituality, few things are as significant as places of worship. Churches, in particular, have played a central role in the spiritual lives of millions worldwide.
These sacred spaces not only serve as venues for worship but also act as pillars of community life, education, and social support. As Christianity continues to be one of the world’s most practiced religions, certain countries stand out for their sheer number of churches.
This article explores the top 10 countries with the highest number of churches, per ratings from Bscholarly, delving into the historical, cultural, and social factors that have led to their proliferation.
1. Vatican City
While Vatican City is the smallest country in Europe by population, it holds a unique distinction: it boasts the highest concentration of churches. With around 1,700 churches, Vatican City has more churches per capita than any other country. This small, yet powerful state, located within Rome, Italy, is home to about 1,000 residents and hosts St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the holiest sites for Catholics worldwide.
2. Rwanda
Rwanda, with a Christian population of 93.6%, is predominantly Roman Catholic. Despite being one of Africa’s smallest and most densely populated countries, it has an estimated population of 11 million people, with around 1 million identifying as Christians. The country’s rich history and significant Christian presence have earned it the nickname “the Jerusalem of Africa” by some Westerners, particularly after the 1967 conflict between Christians and Muslims.
3. Malawi
Malawi stands out with the highest number of churches per capita, with one church for every 132 people. The country has approximately 10,000 churches spread across its territory, reflecting its deep-rooted Christian heritage. Many of these churches date back to colonial times when missionaries established numerous Catholic churches and chapels independently of government support. Before gaining independence from Britain in 1964, Malawi was known as Nyasaland, meaning “the land of lakes.”
4. Angola
Christianity is the dominant religion in Angola, with 95% of the population identifying as Christians. The majority are Roman Catholics, while the rest belong to various Protestant denominations like Methodists, Congregationalists, and Baptists. Christian missionaries played a crucial role in spreading Christianity across Angola, also contributing to the country’s social development through initiatives like free medical care and education.
5. Romania
Romania, located in Southeastern Europe with Bucharest as its capital, is home to approximately 1,800 churches. The country’s cultural and ethnic identity is deeply influenced by Roman history, shaped by its strategic location along major migration routes in Europe. The Orthodox Church, one of the three major Christian denominations, is predominant in Romania, where about 200 million people adhere to Orthodox Christianity.
6. Italy
Italy, with a population of 60.6 million, is the fourth-largest economy in Europe and a founding member of the European Union. It has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its art and architecture, with masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, and Brunelleschi’s Duomo in Florence. Italy is also home to a significant number of churches, a testament to its deep-rooted Christian traditions.
7. Poland
Poland, situated in Central Europe with a population of 38.5 million, is home to over 10,000 churches. The country’s history is steeped in Catholic tradition, which plays a central role in Polish culture and identity. Polish cuisine, influenced by Russian, Ukrainian, Lithuanian, and German culinary traditions, reflects the country’s rich heritage, with dishes passed down through generations.
8. Spain
Spain is a country with a deep European heritage, influenced by significant historical events such as the discovery of the Americas and its neutral stance during the world wars. The Catholic Church has long played a pivotal role in Spanish history, influencing both political and social landscapes. The Church in Spain grew as new members shared their faith with their communities, further solidifying its influence.
9. Portugal
Portugal, one of Europe’s most religious countries, has a long-standing Christian heritage, with 90% of its population identifying as Catholic. Despite its relatively small size, Portugal maintains strong ties with religious institutions, offering benefits such as tax rebates for clergy. The Catholic faith continues to be a significant aspect of Portuguese society.
10. São Tomé and Príncipe
The small island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe, located in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of Central Africa, was settled in the 15th century by Portuguese explorers. The islands became a crucial hub for the African slave trade, and today, Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion, with 55.7% of the population identifying as Catholic, a legacy of Portuguese colonialism.
