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Throughout Europe, countless cathedrals stand as testaments to faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking specimen of modernist design. The clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional local huts. Within, guests can discover what are arguably the most cozy church benches anyone could hope to sit on. A stunning glass mosaic depicting Christ's Second Coming may not be for all tastes, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving the impressive building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what visitors seek in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds filled with blooms and plants offer a spectacular panorama of Nice. The cemetery there holds the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the spirit of a church. While it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is precisely its charm. It has quietly absorbed generations of belief. Being there evoked a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the comfort such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a maze of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic example of Italy's ecclesiastical architecture, boasting stunning stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, including an subterranean crypt, is brimming with history and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece built from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and stunning stained glass form a lofty, light-filled interior of warmth that defies simple labels as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the Gothic cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre all the way to the lake and the distant Alps. Entry to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a diverse schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key venue in Switzerland's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling experience with the skill and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, painter 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 space full of love and peace during a time of war—an inspiring place to visit many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Perched high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, fortress-like Gothic wonder has weathered centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, centered around a colossal organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. The true attention, however, is frequently captured by the hypnotic leer of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that seem to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, visitors walk towards a structure that looks more like a barn from a far away. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 1700s are still in situ. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent churches anyone could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic perhaps intended to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is adorned with luminous religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its true glory, though, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were created by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the church that he decided to design the remaining panes, a task finished in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent range of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this unique treasure is free.