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Throughout Europe, numerous churches stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist creations to centuries-old havens, we present some of the most captivating ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of modernist architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the surrounding scenery and echoes traditional local huts. Within, guests will find what are arguably the most cozy church benches one could hope to experience. A breathtaking glass mosaic portraying Christ's Second Coming may not be for everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Exiting this magnificent structure after an organ recital to witness the northern lights flickering in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

The grounds bursting with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent vista over the city. The cemetery there contains the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a place of worship. While it cannot rival grander establishments, that is precisely its charm. It has quietly absorbed generations of belief. Being there evoked a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the comfort such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italian ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. However, the true highlight of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, with an subterranean crypt, is overflowing with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of the country's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in the German Ruhr

Below Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass create a soaring, luminous space of warmth that defies easy labels as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a modest charge, you can climb the spire. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century building hosts a diverse schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

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, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity during a time of war—an inspiring place to visit many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like medieval wonder has weathered centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and soaring pillars, centered around a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by time. One's attention, though, is often captured by the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this striking basilica.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, you walk to a building that looks more like a farm building from a far away. The building is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a characteristic perhaps intended to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. Its true glory, however, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so taken with the church that he decided to design the remaining panes, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Admission to this extraordinary place is gratis.