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Across the continent, countless cathedrals serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old havens, here are some of the most captivating examples recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking example of modernist architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby landscape and evokes historic local huts. Inside, guests can discover possibly the most cozy pews one could hope to sit on. A stunning glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ might not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound feeling of majesty. Exiting the magnificent structure following an organ recital to see the northern lights dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds filled with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent vista over the city. A graveyard on-site contains the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the essence of a church. Although it would never compare to more ornate establishments, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the comfort these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italy's ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, with an underground vault, is brimming with history and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows create a lofty, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming old town all the way to the lake and the distant Alps. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, you can climb the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a varied schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. In the Second World War, at the request of the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a global conflict—an uplifting place to see decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Perched high up above the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and soaring columns, centered around a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. One's attention, though, is often captured by the mesmerizing leer of the scores of writhing grotesques that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval protectors 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. Parking on a nearby verge, you make their way towards a building that looks more like a farm building from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic perhaps intended to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is architecturally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, however, 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 child. Chagall was so taken with the site that he offered to create the other windows, a work finished in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling range of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming experience. Entry to this unique treasure is gratis.