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Across the continent, countless churches serve as testaments to belief, heritage, and breathtaking artistry. Ranging from modernist creations to ancient sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most captivating ones recommended by discerning travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable example of 20th-century design. Its simple, elegant facade reflects the surrounding landscape and echoes historic local huts. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most comfortable church benches anyone could hope to sit on. One breathtaking mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ may not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving the impressive structure after an musical performance to see the northern lights flickering in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants offer a spectacular vista of Nice. The cemetery on-site holds the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the spirit of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up generations of belief. Sitting there evoked a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a maze of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italy's religious architecture, featuring exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, with an underground crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location rises one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a lofty, light-filled interior of warmth that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this less-visited destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century building hosts a varied programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular venue in Switzerland's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its creators. In the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful space full of hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to visit decades on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Perched high up above the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like medieval wonder has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring columns, all framing a massive organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by time. The true attention, however, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the scores of writhing gargoyles that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this beautiful church.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, visitors walk towards a building that resembles a barn from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but within, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s are still in place. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could imagine. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a feature perhaps designed to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, 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.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were created by the renowned artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's daughter. The artist was so taken with the site that he decided to create the other windows, a task finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a blissful experience. Entry to this unique treasure is free.