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Across Europe, countless churches stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are some of the most remarkable examples recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable specimen of modernist architecture. Its simple, elegant facade mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could ever sit on. One stunning mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ might not appeal to all tastes, but it exudes a powerful feeling of majesty. Exiting this impressive building after an organ recital to witness the aurora borealis flickering overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

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

Its grounds filled with blooms and plants provide a spectacular vista of Nice. The cemetery there holds the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. While it would never compare to grander buildings, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Being there produced a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace such spaces 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 prime illustration of Italian ecclesiastical art, boasting stunning marble and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 12th century. This medieval rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location stands one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled space of warmth that defies easy categorization as "cold". Adding to the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre down to the lake and the far-off Alps. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, you can climb the bell tower. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a diverse schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular venue in Switzerland's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. In the Second World War, at the request of the chaplain, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space full of love and peace during a global conflict—an uplifting site to visit many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for miles around. Set high up above the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. One's attention, though, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that appear to erupt from the exterior walls. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient guardians of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, you make their way to a building that looks more like a farm building from a distance. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, traces of an earlier pre-Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 1700s are still in place. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a characteristic perhaps intended to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. The church's true glory, however, is its windows. All twelve were designed by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's child. Chagall was so taken with the church that he decided to design the other panes, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene environment is a blissful experience. Entry to this unique treasure is gratis.