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Across Europe, numerous cathedrals serve as testaments to faith, history, and breathtaking artistry. From contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old havens, here are some of the most remarkable ones recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking example of 20th-century design. Its simple, elegant exterior reflects the surrounding scenery and echoes historic local huts. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could ever sit on. A breathtaking mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming may not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Leaving this impressive structure following an musical performance to see the northern lights flickering overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

Its grounds filled with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama over the city. A graveyard on-site holds the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the essence of a place of worship. While it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is exactly the point. It has quietly soaked up generations of faith. Being there evoked a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the comfort these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a prime illustration of Italian religious art, featuring stunning stonework and massive domes. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, including an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location stands one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that defies simple categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited location is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above Lausanne, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Admission to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the spire. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular venue in Switzerland's most lively cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the skill and devotion of its builders. In the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From scraps of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful space full of hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an uplifting site to see decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres around. Set on a hill above the Aveyron River, this huge, castle-like Gothic marvel has weathered centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and towering columns, all framing a massive organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's gaze, though, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the scores of twisting gargoyles that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford sits isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven track. Parking on a nearby verge, you walk towards a structure that resembles a farm building from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have revealed Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in place. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could imagine. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a feature perhaps intended to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. The church's remarkable feature, however, is its windows. All twelve were created by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a local couple's child. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he offered to create the remaining windows, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a dazzling spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is free.