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Across the continent, countless churches stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking example of 20th-century design. The clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes historic local huts. Within, visitors will find possibly the most comfortable church benches one could ever experience. A stunning glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ may not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving the magnificent structure after an organ recital to witness the aurora borealis flickering overhead is an unforgettable 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.

The gardens bursting with flowers and herbs offer a spectacular vista of Nice. A graveyard there contains the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is exactly its charm. It has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Being there evoked a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace such spaces can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italy's religious architecture, featuring stunning marble and imposing domes. However, the true highlight of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, with an underground crypt, is overflowing with history and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning stained glass form a lofty, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple labels as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the cathedral offers views stretching from the charming old town all the way to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a varied programme of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by WWII Detainees

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and devotion of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space full of hope and serenity during a time of war—an inspiring site to see many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Perched high up overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has weathered centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a awe-inspiring space of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, all framing a colossal organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. The true attention, though, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the outside walls. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough track. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, you make their way towards a structure that looks more like a barn from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman church become visible. Excavations have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in place. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is quite plain—a characteristic possibly designed to not attract attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its stained glass. All twelve were created by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the church that he offered to create the remaining panes, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling range of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Entry to this unique place is free.