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Throughout Europe, countless cathedrals stand as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist creations to ancient havens, here are a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable example of 20th-century architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding landscape and echoes traditional local huts. Inside, visitors can discover what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could ever experience. A breathtaking glass mosaic depicting Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to all tastes, but it radiates a powerful feeling of majesty. Leaving the impressive building following an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

The grounds filled with blooms and plants offer a spectacular vista of Nice. A graveyard there contains the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely captures the essence of a church. Although it would never compare to grander buildings, that is precisely the point. It has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of faith. Being there produced a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, boasting stunning stonework and massive domes. However, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, including an underground crypt, is brimming with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of this location rises one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a soaring, luminous space of welcome that defies easy categorization as "cold". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above the city, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alpine peaks. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice presents a diverse programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key venue in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its builders. During the 1940s, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an uplifting site to see decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like Gothic marvel has survived centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and towering pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's gaze, though, is frequently captured by the hypnotic leer of the scores of twisting grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior stonework. They look less carved and more fossilised, like primeval protectors of this striking church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, visitors make their way to a structure that looks more like a farm building from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but within, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 1700s remain in place. The overall effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

The village, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Nativity Church is quite unassuming—a characteristic perhaps designed to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, though, lies in its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's child. The artist was so taken with the church that he decided to design the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling range of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.