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Throughout Europe, numerous cathedrals serve as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist masterpieces to centuries-old havens, we present a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of 20th-century architecture. The clean, graceful facade mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional local huts. Within, visitors can discover what are arguably the most comfortable pews one could ever experience. A breathtaking glass mosaic portraying Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Exiting the impressive structure after an organ recital to see the northern lights flickering in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

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

The grounds filled with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent panorama of the city. A graveyard there contains the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the spirit of a church. While it would never compare to grander buildings, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has quietly soaked up centuries of belief. Sitting there produced a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite stonework and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This medieval round church, with an subterranean crypt, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of this location rises one of the world's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning stained glass create a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this less-visited destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the charming historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can climb the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century building presents a diverse schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in Switzerland's most vibrant cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Built by WWII Detainees

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, at the request of the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity during a global conflict—an inspiring site to visit many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez towers over the skyline for kilometres around. Set on a hill above the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like Gothic marvel has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, all framing a massive organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. The true attention, however, is frequently drawn to the hypnotic leer of the hundreds of twisting grotesques that seem to erupt from the outside walls. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient guardians of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, visitors make their way towards a building that looks more like a farm building from a distance. The building is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman church can be seen. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 1700s remain in place. The overall atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches anyone could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a characteristic perhaps designed to avoid suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable surface is covered in vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were created by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a local couple's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he offered to create the remaining panes, a task finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming experience. Entry to this unique treasure is gratis.