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Throughout the continent, numerous cathedrals stand as testaments to faith, history, and breathtaking artistry. From contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old havens, we present a selection of the most captivating examples recommended by discerning travelers.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking specimen of 20th-century design. Its simple, elegant exterior reflects the nearby landscape and echoes historic local huts. Within, visitors will find possibly the most comfortable church benches anyone could ever experience. A breathtaking mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ might not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of grandeur. Leaving the magnificent structure after an musical performance to witness the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in the French Riviera

I never understood what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama over Nice. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the essence of a place of worship. While it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is precisely its charm. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Being there evoked a sensation beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the solace these places can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and narrow alleys, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a prime example of Italy's ecclesiastical architecture, boasting stunning marble and imposing domes. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, including an underground crypt, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and dazzling stained glass create a soaring, luminous interior of warmth that challenges simple labels as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the charming old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old building hosts a diverse schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular venue in the nation's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. During the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity during a global conflict—an uplifting site to visit many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez towers over the skyline for kilometres in every direction. Set on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring pillars, centered around a colossal organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. One's gaze, however, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the scores of twisting gargoyles that appear to erupt from the outside stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this beautiful church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford stands in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a nearby grass verge, you walk to a building that resembles a barn from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an earlier Saxon or early Norman church can be seen. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a characteristic perhaps designed to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is covered in vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, however, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were created by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so taken with the site that he decided to create the remaining panes, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a dazzling spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful sensation. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is free.