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Throughout the continent, numerous cathedrals serve as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of modernist design. The clean, graceful facade mirrors the surrounding landscape and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Within, visitors can discover what are arguably the most comfortable church benches anyone could ever sit on. One stunning mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it exudes a profound sense of grandeur. Exiting the impressive building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what visitors seek in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with flowers and herbs offer a spectacular panorama of Nice. The cemetery on-site contains the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the spirit of a place of worship. While it cannot rival grander buildings, that is exactly the point. It has quietly soaked up centuries of faith. Sitting there produced a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Nestled within a maze of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic example of Italy's religious architecture, boasting exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, including an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of concrete and dazzling stained glass form a lofty, light-filled interior of warmth that challenges easy labels as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this tourist-free location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the charming historic centre all the way to the lake and the far-off Alps. Admission to the church is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Aside from its remarkable gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 12th-century edifice presents a varied programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling experience with the skill and devotion of its creators. During the 1940s, following a plea from the chaplain, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful sanctuary imbued with love and peace during a global conflict—an inspiring place to visit decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Perched high up overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, fortress-like Gothic wonder has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are polished smooth by time. The true attention, though, is frequently captured by the mesmerizing leer of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that seem to burst out of the outside walls. They seem less carved and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford sits isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, you make their way to a building that resembles a farm building from a far away. Its construction is mostly from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an older Saxon or early Norman church become visible. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in situ. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a characteristic perhaps intended to avoid attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 1100s, is architecturally rather simple. The church's true glory, though, is its stained glass. All twelve were designed by the celebrated artist Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he offered to create the remaining windows, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork showcase a dazzling range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.