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Throughout Europe, countless cathedrals stand as testaments to belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist masterpieces to centuries-old havens, here are a selection of the most captivating ones recommended by discerning travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking specimen of modernist design. The simple, elegant exterior mirrors the nearby landscape and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Within, visitors can discover what are arguably the most comfortable pews anyone could ever experience. One breathtaking glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ may not be for everyone, but it exudes a powerful sense of majesty. Exiting the magnificent building following an musical performance to see the northern lights flickering overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in the French Riviera

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

The grounds filled with flowers and herbs provide a spectacular vista of Nice. A graveyard there contains the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the essence of a church. While it would never compare to grander establishments, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up generations of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the solace these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic example of Italian ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 12th century. This medieval rotunda, including an subterranean crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

Below Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning stained glass form a soaring, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above Lausanne, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque old town down to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can climb the spire. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a diverse programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular cultural hub in Switzerland's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by WWII Detainees

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. During the Second World War, at the request of the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a time of war—an uplifting site to visit decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has survived centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, centered around a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. The true attention, however, is frequently captured by the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that seem to erupt from the outside walls. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient guardians of this striking basilica.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby grass verge, visitors make their way towards a building that looks more like a farm building from a far away. The building is primarily from the 13th century, but within, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Excavations have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in place. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a characteristic possibly intended to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. The church's true glory, though, lies in its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the renowned painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a family's child. Chagall was so taken with the church that he offered to design the other panes, a task finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a magnificent range of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this unique treasure is free.