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Throughout the continent, countless cathedrals stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning artistry. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to ancient havens, here are some of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking specimen of modernist design. The simple, elegant facade reflects the surrounding landscape and echoes traditional local huts. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable church benches anyone could hope to sit on. One stunning glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it radiates a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving the impressive structure following an organ recital to witness the northern lights flickering overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

The grounds filled with blooms and plants provide a magnificent panorama over Nice. The cemetery there holds the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the essence of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed generations of faith. Being there produced a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the comfort such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, featuring exquisite marble and massive domes. However, the real gem of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, with an underground crypt, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of this location rises one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece built from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled space of warmth that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high above the city, the Gothic cathedral offers views stretching from the charming historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is free, and for a small fee, you can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century edifice hosts a diverse schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular cultural hub in Switzerland's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its builders. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful space full of love and peace during a time of war—an inspiring site to visit decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres around. Set on a hill above the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and soaring 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 hypnotic stare of the hundreds of twisting grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less carved and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven track. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors make their way to a structure that resembles a barn from a distance. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but within, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 1700s are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches anyone could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather plain—a characteristic possibly intended to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable surface is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. The church's true glory, however, is its windows. Every single one were created by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a local couple's child. The artist was so impressed by the site that he offered to design the remaining panes, a task finished in 1985. The windows feature a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Entry to this unique place is gratis.