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Across the continent, countless cathedrals stand as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to ancient havens, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking specimen of modernist design. Its simple, elegant facade mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most comfortable pews anyone could ever sit on. One breathtaking glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ may not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a powerful feeling of majesty. Exiting the magnificent building after an musical performance to see the northern lights dancing in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what people find in churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

Its grounds filled with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent vista over Nice. The cemetery on-site contains the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the spirit of a place of worship. While it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is precisely its charm. It has quietly soaked up generations of faith. Sitting there evoked a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the solace such spaces can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic example of Italy's ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite marble and imposing domes. Yet, the true highlight of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, with an underground crypt, is brimming with history and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location rises one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a soaring, luminous interior of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited destination is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views that extend from the charming historic centre all the way to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can climb the bell tower. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century edifice presents a diverse schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a popular venue in the nation's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by WWII Detainees

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its builders. In the 1940s, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an inspiring site to see decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Perched on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like medieval marvel has weathered centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, centered around a massive pipe organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's attention, though, is frequently captured by the hypnotic stare of the scores of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the exterior stonework. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient protectors of this beautiful church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford sits in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough track. Parking on a nearby grass verge, you walk towards a structure that looks more like a barn from a far away. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather plain—a characteristic perhaps designed to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, though, lies in its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's child. The artist was so impressed by the site that he decided to create the remaining panes, a task completed in 1985. The windows feature a dazzling spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene environment is a blissful sensation. Admission to this unique place is free.