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Throughout the continent, numerous cathedrals serve as testaments to belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to centuries-old havens, here are some of the most captivating examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking example of modernist design. Its clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable pews one could ever sit on. A breathtaking mural of glass depicting Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to all tastes, but it exudes a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting the impressive structure following an musical performance to witness the northern lights dancing overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

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 offer a spectacular panorama over the city. A graveyard on-site contains the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the spirit of a place of worship. While it cannot rival grander establishments, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Being there produced a sensation beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and winding alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic example of Italian religious art, featuring exquisite marble and imposing cupolas. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This medieval round church, with an underground crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

Below Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the world's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a modernist masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows create a lofty, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges easy categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the Gothic cathedral commands views that extend from the charming historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Entry to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the spire. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 800-year-old building hosts a diverse schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular venue in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. In the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to visit decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Perched on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like Gothic wonder has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and towering columns, all framing a colossal pipe organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. One's gaze, however, is often drawn to the hypnotic stare of the scores of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the exterior walls. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval protectors of this beautiful basilica.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, accessible only by a rough track. Leaving your car on a nearby grass verge, you make their way towards a building that resembles a farm building from a distance. The building is mostly from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—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 covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. The church's remarkable feature, however, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were created by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's child. Chagall was so taken with the site that he offered to create the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful setting is a blissful experience. Admission to this extraordinary place is free.