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Across the continent, numerous cathedrals stand as testaments to faith, history, and stunning artistry. From modernist creations to ancient havens, we present a selection of the most captivating examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking specimen of 20th-century design. Its simple, elegant exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes traditional local huts. Inside, visitors can discover what are arguably the most comfortable church benches anyone could ever experience. One stunning mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ may not be for everyone, but it radiates a powerful sense of grandeur. Exiting the magnificent building after an musical performance to witness the northern lights dancing overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what people find in old churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds filled with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama over Nice. A graveyard on-site holds the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely captures the spirit of a church. While it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is exactly its charm. It has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there produced a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the comfort such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a maze of squares and winding alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a classic illustration of Italy's ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is overflowing with history and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location stands one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a modernist triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a soaring, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this tourist-free destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the Gothic cathedral offers views stretching from the charming historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, visitors can climb the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century edifice hosts a varied programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key venue in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its builders. 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. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful sanctuary imbued with hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an uplifting site to visit many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for miles around. Perched on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this huge, castle-like medieval wonder has weathered hundreds of years of history's tumult. Inside is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, centered around a massive pipe organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are polished smooth by ages. One's attention, however, is often drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the exterior stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, visitors walk to a building that looks more like a barn from a distance. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, traces of an earlier pre-Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in place. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a feature possibly designed to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, however, lies in its windows. Every single one were created by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's child. The artist was so taken with the site that he offered to create the other windows, a task finished in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful environment is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary place is gratis.