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Throughout Europe, countless churches stand as testaments to belief, heritage, and stunning artistry. From modernist masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, we present some of the most remarkable examples as shared by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a remarkable example of 20th-century architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional local huts. Within, visitors can discover possibly the most cozy pews anyone could hope to experience. A breathtaking mural of glass depicting Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of majesty. Exiting this magnificent building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights flickering overhead is an unforgettable moment.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

The gardens bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent vista of Nice. A graveyard there contains the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. While it would never compare to grander establishments, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the solace such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a classic illustration of Italian religious art, featuring stunning marble and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, with an underground vault, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in the German Ruhr

Below Essen in the town of this location rises one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph built from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass form a soaring, light-filled space of welcome that challenges easy labels as "cold". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral commands views that extend from the charming historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century building hosts a diverse programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key venue in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Created by WWII Detainees

Seeing the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a humbling experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a time of war—an inspiring site to see many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Perched high up above the River Aveyron, this immense, fortress-like medieval wonder has weathered centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and towering pillars, centered around a colossal organ. Its intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. One's attention, though, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the scores of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval protectors of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven footpath. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors make their way towards a structure that resembles a barn from a far away. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 1700s remain in situ. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, 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 feature possibly intended to avoid suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were designed by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's child. The artist was so taken with the site that he decided to design the other windows, a task completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a blissful experience. Admission to this extraordinary place is free.