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Across the continent, countless cathedrals serve as testaments to belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most captivating ones recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking specimen of modernist design. The clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby landscape and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable church benches one could ever experience. One stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to all tastes, but it exudes a profound sense of grandeur. Exiting this impressive structure after an musical performance to witness the northern lights flickering overhead is an unforgettable moment.

Panoramic Vistas and Artistic Legacy in the French Riviera

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

The grounds filled with blooms and plants provide a spectacular vista of Nice. A graveyard there holds the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely captures the spirit of a church. While it cannot rival grander establishments, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Being there produced a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italy's religious art, featuring stunning stonework and massive cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, including an subterranean vault, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals act as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

Below Essen in the town of this location rises one of the world's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that defies simple labels as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited location is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing example of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral commands views that extend from the charming historic centre down to the lake and the far-off Alps. Admission to the church is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking views, this 12th-century edifice hosts a diverse programme of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling experience with the skill and faith of its creators. During the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace during a time of war—an inspiring place to see many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for kilometres in every direction. Perched on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, fortress-like Gothic marvel has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and towering columns, centered around a massive organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. The true gaze, however, is frequently captured by the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They look less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet sits in a remote field, reachable solely by a uneven track. Parking on a adjacent grass verge, you make their way towards a building that looks more like a barn from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an older Saxon or early Norman church become visible. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 18th century are still in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches anyone could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a feature perhaps designed to not attract attention during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous religious icons and narrative paintings. The effect is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, though, is its stained glass. Every single one were created by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the church that he decided to create the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful experience. Entry to this unique treasure is free.