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Throughout Europe, numerous cathedrals stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From contemporary creations to centuries-old havens, we present some of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable example of modernist architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior mirrors the nearby landscape and echoes historic local huts. Inside, visitors can discover what are arguably the most comfortable church benches one could ever experience. One stunning mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it radiates a powerful feeling of grandeur. Exiting this magnificent structure after an musical performance to see the northern lights flickering overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants provide a spectacular vista over the city. A graveyard on-site contains the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely embodies the spirit of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to grander buildings, that is exactly the point. It has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep 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 Duomo Nuovo is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical art, featuring stunning stonework and massive cupolas. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This medieval round church, including an subterranean crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of the country's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows form a soaring, light-filled space of welcome that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this less-visited location is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Entry to the church is free, and for a modest charge, you can climb the spire. Aside from its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century building hosts a diverse schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the skill and faith of its builders. In the Second World War, at the request of the chaplain, artist 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 profoundly beautiful sanctuary imbued with love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to see many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Perched on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has weathered centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and towering columns, centered around a massive pipe organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. One's attention, though, is often drawn to the mesmerizing leer of the scores of writhing grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this striking basilica.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Parking on a adjacent grass verge, visitors make their way to a building that resembles a barn from a far away. The building is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s are still in place. The resulting atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a feature possibly intended to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable surface is adorned with luminous religious icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 1100s, is architecturally rather simple. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's daughter. The artist was so taken with the church that he offered to create the remaining windows, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork showcase a dazzling spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary place is free.