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Throughout Europe, countless cathedrals serve as testaments to faith, history, and stunning artistry. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present a selection of the most captivating ones as shared by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable specimen of modernist design. Its simple, elegant facade reflects the surrounding scenery and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Within, guests will find what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could hope to sit on. A stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming may not be for everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of majesty. Exiting this impressive structure after an musical performance to see the aurora borealis flickering overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

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

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants provide a spectacular vista of the city. A graveyard on-site holds the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely captures the spirit of a church. Although it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is precisely its charm. It has quietly soaked up centuries of belief. Being there produced a feeling beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the comfort such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italian religious art, featuring exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, with an underground vault, is overflowing with history and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches 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 municipality of Neviges stands one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and dazzling stained glass form a lofty, luminous interior of warmth that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Adding to the appeal of this less-visited destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing example of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high above the city, the cathedral offers views that extend from the charming old town all the way to the lake and the far-off Alps. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular views, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Created by WWII Detainees

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, at the request of the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity during a global conflict—an inspiring site to visit decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for miles around. Perched high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, fortress-like Gothic marvel has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, all framing a massive organ. Its intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. The true gaze, though, is often drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the scores of writhing grotesques that seem to erupt from the exterior stonework. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like ancient guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby grass verge, visitors walk towards a building that looks more like a farm building from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but within, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in place. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a feature possibly designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. The church's true glory, though, lies in its windows. Every single one were designed by the renowned artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he decided to create the remaining panes, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene setting is a blissful sensation. Entry to this unique place is free.