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Throughout the continent, countless churches stand as testaments to faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary creations to ancient sanctuaries, here are some of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable specimen of modernist design. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the surrounding landscape and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, guests will find possibly the most comfortable pews anyone could ever sit on. One breathtaking glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ might not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Exiting the magnificent building following an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its gardens filled with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama over Nice. The cemetery on-site contains the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. While it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is precisely the point. It has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime example of Italy's ecclesiastical architecture, boasting exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. Yet, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This medieval round church, with an underground crypt, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

Below Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a modernist triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the cathedral offers views that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century edifice presents a varied programme of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular venue in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. In the 1940s, at the request of the chaplain, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful sanctuary imbued with hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an uplifting site to see many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for kilometres around. Perched on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, fortress-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and soaring columns, centered around a massive pipe organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. One's attention, though, is often captured by the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a rough footpath. Parking on a adjacent verge, you walk to a building that looks more like a barn from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century remain in situ. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches anyone could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a characteristic possibly intended to avoid attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The effect is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, however, lies in its windows. All twelve were created by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a family's daughter. The artist was so taken with the church that he decided to design the other panes, a task finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene environment is a profoundly calming experience. Entry to this unique treasure is gratis.