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Across Europe, countless cathedrals serve as testaments to faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking example of 20th-century architecture. The simple, elegant facade mirrors the nearby scenery and echoes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, guests can discover what are arguably the most comfortable church benches anyone could ever experience. A breathtaking mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ may not be for all tastes, but it radiates a powerful feeling of majesty. Leaving the magnificent building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

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

The grounds filled with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent panorama over Nice. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the essence of a church. Although it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is precisely its charm. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there produced a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the comfort these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and winding alleys, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italian religious architecture, featuring exquisite marble and imposing domes. However, the true highlight of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, with an subterranean crypt, is brimming with history and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a soaring, luminous space of warmth that defies simple categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above the city, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the charming old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is free, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the spire. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century edifice presents a diverse schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Created by WWII Detainees

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. In the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful space imbued with love and peace during a time of war—an uplifting site to visit many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Set on a hill above the Aveyron River, this huge, castle-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, centered around a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. One's attention, though, is often drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet stands in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven track. Parking on a nearby grass verge, visitors walk towards a building that resembles a farm building from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century remain in situ. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic possibly intended to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were created by the renowned painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the church that he decided to design the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this unique place is free.