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Throughout the continent, numerous churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist creations to ancient sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most captivating ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable example of modernist architecture. The clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes historic local huts. Within, visitors will find possibly the most cozy pews anyone could hope to sit on. One stunning glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ may not appeal to all tastes, but it radiates a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving this impressive building following an organ recital to see the northern lights flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what people find in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its gardens bursting with flowers and herbs provide a spectacular panorama of the city. A graveyard on-site holds the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly captures the spirit of a church. While it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of faith. Sitting there evoked a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the comfort such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, boasting exquisite marble and massive domes. Yet, the real gem of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, including an underground crypt, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

South of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a modernist masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and dazzling stained glass create a soaring, light-filled space of welcome that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the cathedral offers views that extend from the charming historic centre down to the lake and the far-off Alps. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the spire. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a diverse programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, 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 chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful space full of hope and serenity during a global conflict—an uplifting place to visit many years later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Set on a hill above the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic wonder has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring pillars, centered around a massive pipe organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. One's attention, however, is often drawn to the mesmerizing leer of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that appear to erupt from the exterior stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford sits isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a rough track. Leaving your car on a nearby grass verge, you make their way to a structure that resembles a farm building from a far away. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an earlier Saxon or early Norman church become visible. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews 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 Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a characteristic possibly designed to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous religious icons and narrative paintings. The effect is truly overwhelming and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its true glory, however, lies in its windows. All twelve were designed by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so taken with the church that he decided to create the other windows, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming experience. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.