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Throughout the continent, numerous cathedrals serve as testaments to belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist creations to ancient havens, we present a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking example of 20th-century design. Its simple, elegant exterior reflects the nearby scenery and echoes historic local huts. Inside, visitors will find possibly the most comfortable church benches one could hope to sit on. A breathtaking glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ might not be for all tastes, but it radiates a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving this impressive building following an musical performance to witness the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

The grounds bursting with blooms and plants offer a spectacular vista over Nice. The cemetery on-site holds the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the essence of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to grander buildings, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there produced a feeling beyond 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 squares and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, featuring exquisite marble and imposing domes. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, including an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning stained glass form a soaring, light-filled space of welcome that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this tourist-free location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the church is free, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a diverse schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular cultural hub in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by WWII Detainees

A visit to the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the skill and devotion of its creators. In the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to see many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres around. Perched on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and towering pillars, centered around a colossal pipe organ. Its intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's gaze, however, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They look less carved and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, accessible only by a rough footpath. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors walk to a building that resembles a farm building from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a feature perhaps intended to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable surface is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, however, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were created by the renowned artist Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a local couple's child. The artist was so taken with the site that he decided to design the other panes, a task completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent range of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary place is gratis.