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Across the continent, numerous cathedrals serve as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable example of 20th-century design. Its simple, elegant facade mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes historic local huts. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most cozy church benches anyone could ever experience. One breathtaking mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ might not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Exiting this magnificent structure following an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

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

Its gardens bursting with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama of the city. A graveyard there contains the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the essence of a place of worship. While it cannot rival grander establishments, that is precisely the point. It has unobtrusively soaked up generations of faith. Sitting there evoked a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the comfort such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and narrow alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic example of Italy's ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite stonework and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, with an subterranean vault, is overflowing with history and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the world's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a modernist triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and stunning coloured windows create a soaring, light-filled interior of warmth that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Admission to the church is free, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular views, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a varied programme of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key venue in the nation's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. During the Second World War, at the request of the camp priest, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace during a time of war—an uplifting place to visit decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez towers over the skyline for kilometres in every direction. Set high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic marvel has weathered centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, all framing a colossal organ. The elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. One's attention, however, is frequently drawn to the hypnotic leer of the scores of twisting grotesques that seem to erupt from the exterior walls. They seem less carved and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking basilica.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a uneven footpath. Parking on a nearby verge, you make their way towards a structure that looks more like a barn from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 1700s remain in situ. The overall effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a feature perhaps designed to avoid suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is adorned with luminous religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is architecturally rather simple. Its true glory, however, is its windows. Every single one were created by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's child. The artist was so taken with the church that he offered to create the remaining panes, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this extraordinary place is free.