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Across the continent, numerous churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist creations to ancient havens, here are some of the most captivating examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of modernist architecture. The clean, graceful facade reflects the nearby landscape and evokes traditional local huts. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most comfortable pews anyone could hope to sit on. A stunning glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ might not be for all tastes, but it radiates a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving the impressive structure following an musical performance to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in the French Riviera

I never understood what people find in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

The grounds bursting with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent vista over the city. The cemetery on-site contains the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the spirit of a church. Although it cannot rival grander establishments, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Being there produced a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the solace such spaces can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italian ecclesiastical art, featuring exquisite marble and massive cupolas. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, including an underground crypt, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in Germany

Below Essen in the town of this location rises one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that challenges simple labels as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral commands sweeping vistas stretching from the charming old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Entry to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, you can ascend the spire. Aside from its impressive medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a diverse programme of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. During the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. Using scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful sanctuary imbued with hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an inspiring place to see many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Set on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like medieval marvel has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and towering pillars, centered around a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. The true gaze, however, is often captured by the hypnotic leer of the scores of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a rough track. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, you make their way to a building that resembles a barn from a distance. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an older pre-Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and fragments of 14th-century frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 18th century remain in situ. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a characteristic perhaps designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 1100s, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, however, is its windows. All twelve were created by the celebrated artist Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so taken with the site that he decided to design the remaining panes, a task completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent range of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is free.