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The small island nation of Malta has changed hands several times over the centuries due to its militarily strategic importance, with several kingdoms and empires leaving their mark. Much of the island's most notable architecture was built during the 16th-18th centuries under the rule of the Knights of St. John, a Catholic military order who left their mark on the Island's religious heritage. Today, Malta hosts several magnificent and well preserved religious heritage sites that make any visit well worth the trip.

Religious heritage in Croatia's capital city dates back to its founding when the town of Gradec merged with the neighbouring canonical settlement of Kaptol which was the seat of the regional diocese. Since then, the city remained an important place for philosophy and theology. Furthermore, its location as an important city under the multicultural Austro-Hungarian empire and the multi-religious Yugoslavia gave it quite a variety of religious heritage sites that can be enjoyed today.

Despite going through a war which caused much devastation to both the lad and its cultural heritage, Croatia has been able to preserve its jewels of sacred architecture, mainly those located on its coast, many of which are recognised by UNESCO.

The Ukrainian Baroque style, one of the most recognisable architectural styles in Ukraine, is a mixture of Baroque and traditional Russian architecture that was very popular in 17th and 18th century Ukraine. Although originating in Kyiv, we have also selected some lesser-known examples located outside the capital.

The cradle of Slavic culture, Kyivis also a crossroads for the populations of Eastern Europe. Here, monasteries with golden onion domes stand alongside Ashkenazi synagogues and even a Tatar mosque.

Ukraine has one of the largest numbers of Jewish heritage sites of any European country with around 1,500 listed sites. Its Jewish community has contributed much to Jewish cultural heritage: the first shtetls were located in Ukraine, and Hasidism was born here.

The Ukrainian Carpathians, like many mountainous regions throughout Europe, are home to many minorities. Gorals, Boykos, Lemkos, Rusyns and Hutsuls all share a great deal of expertise in building with wood, the material with which they erect their churches.

Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, has its origins in a 6th-century monastic settlement. It is no exaggeration to say that the religious culture is deeply present. Today, like other cities in Ireland, Cork bears the mark of the long imposed separation between Catholics and Anglicans.

High Crosses are the main surviving monumental works of Celtic art. They have existed in Ireland since the 6th century. Today these crosses are often found on monastic or ecclesiastical sites.

Dublin is famous for its beautiful Georgian buildings, its music scene and of course its pubs. Dublin's religious heritage is just as interesting, it tells the story of the city's foundation by the Vikings, its long occupation by the English, and the birth of nationalism through Catholicism.