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Across the continent, countless cathedrals stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old havens, we present some of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable specimen of modernist design. Its clean, graceful facade mirrors the nearby landscape and echoes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could hope to sit on. One breathtaking mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Exiting the magnificent building following an organ recital to witness the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

Its grounds filled with blooms and plants offer a magnificent vista over the city. The cemetery there contains the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. While it cannot rival grander buildings, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime example of Italy's religious art, featuring exquisite marble and imposing domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 1100s. This medieval round church, including an underground crypt, is brimming with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

Below Essen in the municipality of Neviges stands one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows form a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above the city, the cathedral commands views stretching from the charming old town all the way to the lake and the far-off Alps. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the spire. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking views, this 12th-century building hosts a varied schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular venue in Switzerland's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and faith of its builders. During the Second World War, at the request of the camp priest, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a time of war—an uplifting place to visit decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Perched high up above the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and towering pillars, centered around a colossal pipe organ. The intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. One's attention, however, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the scores of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the exterior walls. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this beautiful church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough footpath. Parking on a nearby verge, visitors walk to a structure that resembles a farm building from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s are still in place. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to avoid attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous religious icons and biblical scenes. The result is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, however, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were created by the renowned artist Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's daughter. The artist was so taken with the site that he offered to design the other windows, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork showcase a magnificent range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this extraordinary place is gratis.