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Across Europe, countless cathedrals serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and breathtaking artistry. From contemporary masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, here are some of the most captivating examples recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking specimen of modernist design. The simple, elegant facade mirrors the nearby scenery and echoes historic local huts. Within, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable pews anyone could ever experience. One breathtaking glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ may not be for all tastes, but it exudes a profound sense of grandeur. Exiting the impressive building after an organ recital to witness the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas 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 was different.

The gardens bursting with flowers and herbs provide a spectacular panorama over the city. The cemetery on-site holds the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the essence of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is precisely its charm. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there produced a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italian religious art, featuring exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, with an subterranean crypt, is overflowing with history and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece built from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a soaring, light-filled space of welcome that defies simple categorization as "brutalist". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral commands views stretching from the picturesque historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the spire. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking views, this 12th-century building presents a diverse schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key venue in the nation's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and devotion of its creators. During the 1940s, at the request of the chaplain, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they created a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to see many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for miles in every direction. Set on a hill above the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like Gothic marvel has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and towering columns, all framing a massive pipe organ. Its intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. One's gaze, however, is frequently captured by the hypnotic stare of the scores of writhing grotesques that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They seem less carved and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, you walk to a structure that resembles a farm building from a distance. Its construction is mostly from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 18th century remain in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches anyone could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic possibly designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, though, is its windows. Every single one were created by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the site that he decided to create the remaining panes, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene environment is a blissful experience. Admission to this unique place is free.