The World's Most Spectacularly Modern Places Of Worship

Church architecture often reflects the grandiosity of the higher power people gather to worship. In recent years, architects have sought out the most eye-catching designs possible.

But it's not just about having a steeple and pews. Some houses of worship mimick shapes in nature, like the Leaf Chapel in Hokuto, Japan. And the the Neue Synagogue in Mainz, Germany, is shaped like the Hebrew word Kedushah, meaning blessing.

Experts at the international building database Emporis.com rounded up a selection of the world's most spectacular churches based on modern architecture and design.