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Across Europe, numerous cathedrals stand as testaments to belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary creations to ancient havens, we present some of the most remarkable ones as shared by discerning travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable specimen of 20th-century architecture. The clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby scenery and evokes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most comfortable church benches one could hope to experience. One stunning mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ may not be for all tastes, but it radiates a profound feeling of majesty. Exiting the magnificent building after an musical performance to see the northern lights dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

Its gardens bursting with flowers and herbs offer a spectacular panorama over the city. A graveyard on-site holds the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. Although it would never compare to grander buildings, that is precisely its charm. It has quietly soaked up generations of belief. Sitting there evoked a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic example of Italian religious architecture, featuring stunning marble and imposing domes. Yet, the true highlight of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, including an underground crypt, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass form a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that defies easy categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the picturesque old town down to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the spire. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied programme of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular cultural hub in Switzerland's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. In the 1940s, at the request of the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space full of love and peace during a global conflict—an inspiring place to see decades on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for miles in every direction. Perched high up above the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has weathered hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring columns, centered around a colossal organ. The elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by time. One's attention, however, is often captured by the mesmerizing leer of the hundreds of twisting grotesques that appear to erupt from the exterior stonework. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this striking church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough track. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, visitors make their way towards a structure that resembles a farm building from a far away. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, traces of an earlier pre-Norman church become visible. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The overall atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is rather plain—a characteristic possibly intended to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. The church's remarkable feature, however, is its windows. Every single one were created by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's child. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he decided to create the remaining panes, a work completed in 1985. The windows feature a dazzling range of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.