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Throughout Europe, countless cathedrals stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to ancient havens, we present a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable example of modernist architecture. The clean, graceful facade reflects the nearby landscape and echoes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could hope to sit on. One stunning glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Exiting this impressive structure after an musical performance to see the northern lights dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in the French Riviera

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

The grounds filled with blooms and plants provide a spectacular panorama of Nice. A graveyard there contains the resting place of painter Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly captures the spirit of a place of worship. While it would never compare to grander establishments, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of faith. Being there produced a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the solace these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italy's religious architecture, boasting exquisite marble and massive cupolas. However, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, with an subterranean crypt, is brimming with history and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

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 the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece built from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows create a lofty, luminous interior of warmth that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking the city, the Gothic cathedral commands views that extend from the charming old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can climb the spire. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking views, this 12th-century edifice hosts a diverse schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key venue in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. In the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an inspiring site to see many years later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres around. Set on a hill above the Aveyron River, this immense, fortress-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. The true attention, however, is frequently captured by the hypnotic leer of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that seem to burst out of the exterior stonework. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a uneven footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby verge, visitors make their way to a building that looks more like a barn from a distance. The building is mostly from the 1200s, but inside, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 18th century remain in place. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches anyone could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a characteristic possibly intended to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, 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 utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 1100s, is structurally rather simple. The church's true glory, however, is its stained glass. Every single one were created by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's child. Chagall was so taken with the church that he decided to create the other windows, a work finished in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary place is free.