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Throughout Europe, countless cathedrals stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist creations to ancient havens, here are some of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable example of 20th-century design. The simple, elegant exterior reflects the surrounding scenery and echoes historic local huts. Within, guests can discover possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could hope to experience. One stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming may not be for everyone, but it exudes a profound sense of majesty. Exiting the magnificent structure following an musical performance to see the northern lights flickering overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

The grounds bursting with blooms and plants provide a magnificent panorama over the city. The cemetery on-site holds the resting place of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the spirit of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is exactly the point. It has unobtrusively soaked up generations of belief. Being there produced a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the comfort such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italy's religious art, featuring exquisite stonework and imposing domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, with an underground vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning stained glass create a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this tourist-free destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views that extend from the picturesque historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can climb the bell tower. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a key venue in Switzerland's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by WWII Detainees

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and devotion of its creators. In the 1940s, at the request of the chaplain, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity during a global conflict—an inspiring site to visit decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Perched on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like Gothic marvel has survived centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring columns, all framing a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. The true gaze, though, is frequently captured by the hypnotic leer of the scores of twisting gargoyles that seem to burst out of the exterior stonework. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet stands in a remote field, accessible only by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, you make their way towards a structure that resembles a farm building from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but within, evidence of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is quite unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were designed by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the church that he offered to create the other windows, a task finished in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this extraordinary place is free.