🔗 Share this article

Across the continent, numerous cathedrals serve as testaments to faith, history, and breathtaking artistry. From contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present a selection of the most remarkable examples as shared by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking specimen of 20th-century architecture. Its simple, elegant exterior mirrors the surrounding landscape and echoes historic local huts. Inside, guests can discover possibly the most comfortable church benches one could hope to sit on. A breathtaking glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ may not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound feeling of majesty. Exiting this impressive building following an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing 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 visitors seek in old churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants provide a spectacular vista over the city. The cemetery there holds the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the spirit of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to grander buildings, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed generations of faith. Sitting there produced a feeling beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the solace such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic example of Italian religious art, featuring exquisite marble and massive cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This medieval round church, including an subterranean vault, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and dazzling stained glass form a lofty, luminous space of welcome that defies easy labels as "cold". Adding to the allure of this less-visited destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking the city, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, you can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive medieval structure and spectacular views, this 12th-century building hosts a diverse schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. In the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an inspiring place to see decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for miles in every direction. Perched high up above the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring columns, all framing a massive pipe organ. The elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. The true attention, though, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing leer of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that appear to burst out of the outside walls. They look less carved and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a nearby verge, you walk to a structure that resembles a farm building from a distance. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in situ. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, however, lies in its windows. All twelve were designed by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the church that he decided to create the other windows, a task finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a dazzling range of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene setting is a profoundly calming experience. Entry to this extraordinary place is free.