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Across the continent, countless cathedrals serve as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From contemporary creations to ancient sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking specimen of 20th-century architecture. Its simple, elegant facade mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes historic local huts. Within, guests can discover possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could ever sit on. A stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming might not be for everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving this impressive structure following an musical performance to witness the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what people find in churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

The grounds filled with flowers and herbs offer a spectacular panorama of Nice. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely captures the spirit of a church. Although it would never compare to grander buildings, that is exactly the point. It has quietly soaked up centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the solace these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic example of Italy's religious art, featuring exquisite marble and imposing domes. However, the true highlight of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, including an subterranean crypt, is brimming with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of the country's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning stained glass create a lofty, light-filled space of warmth that defies simple categorization as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral offers views stretching from the charming old town all the way to the lake and the far-off Alps. Admission to the church is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can climb the spire. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular views, this 12th-century edifice hosts a varied programme of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular cultural hub in the nation's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by WWII Detainees

A visit to the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the skill and devotion of its builders. In the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary imbued with hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an uplifting place to visit many years later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Set high up above the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has survived centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, centered around a massive pipe organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's gaze, however, is frequently captured by the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of twisting grotesques that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet sits in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, visitors make their way to a building that looks more like a farm building from a far away. The building is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 18th century remain in situ. The overall effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a feature possibly intended to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, though, lies in its stained glass. Every single one were created by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he decided to design the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling range of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.