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Throughout the continent, countless churches serve as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to ancient sanctuaries, here are some of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking specimen of 20th-century architecture. The clean, graceful facade reflects the surrounding landscape and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, guests can discover possibly the most comfortable church benches anyone could ever experience. One stunning glass mosaic depicting Christ's Second Coming may not be for everyone, but it exudes a powerful sense of majesty. Exiting the magnificent building after an organ recital to see the northern lights flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds filled with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama over Nice. A graveyard there holds the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to grander establishments, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has quietly soaked up centuries of faith. Being there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime example of Italy's religious art, boasting exquisite stonework and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 12th century. This medieval round church, including an underground crypt, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a microcosm of the country's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph built from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and stunning stained glass create a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that defies simple categorization as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing example of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral commands sweeping vistas stretching from the picturesque old town down to the lake and the distant Alps. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular views, this 800-year-old building presents a varied programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in Switzerland's most vibrant cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. During the 1940s, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary imbued with love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring site to visit many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Set on a hill above the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like medieval marvel has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring columns, centered around a massive organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. The true attention, however, is often captured by the hypnotic leer of the scores of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval protectors of this beautiful basilica.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby verge, you make their way to a building that resembles a barn from a far away. The building is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman church become visible. Excavations have revealed Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century remain in place. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, however, lies in its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the site that he decided to design the remaining windows, a work completed in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a blissful sensation. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is free.