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Across Europe, countless cathedrals serve as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most captivating examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable specimen of 20th-century architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the surrounding landscape and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, guests will find possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could ever sit on. One breathtaking mural of glass depicting Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a powerful feeling of grandeur. Exiting the magnificent building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its gardens filled with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent vista of the city. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the essence of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival grander buildings, that is precisely the point. It has quietly soaked up centuries of faith. Sitting there evoked a feeling beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the comfort these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a classic example of Italian religious art, boasting stunning stonework and massive domes. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 12th century. This medieval rotunda, including an underground crypt, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location stands one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a soaring, light-filled interior of welcome that defies simple categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this tourist-free location is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking the city, the Gothic cathedral offers views that extend from the charming old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, you can climb the spire. Aside from its remarkable gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 12th-century building hosts a varied schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key venue in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by WWII Detainees

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its builders. In the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an uplifting site to see decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic marvel has weathered centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, centered around a colossal pipe organ. The intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. One's gaze, however, is often drawn to the hypnotic leer of the scores of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the exterior walls. They look less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this beautiful basilica.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, 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 distance. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 18th century remain in place. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

The village, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic possibly intended to avoid suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is architecturally rather simple. Its true glory, however, lies in its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a local couple's child. Chagall was so taken with the site that he offered to create the other windows, a task finished in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling range of blues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Admission to this unique treasure is gratis.