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Across the continent, numerous cathedrals serve as testaments to faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are some of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of modernist architecture. Its clean, graceful facade mirrors the surrounding landscape and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Within, visitors can discover what are arguably the most cozy pews one could hope to sit on. One stunning glass mosaic depicting Christ's Second Coming may not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving the impressive building after an musical performance to witness the aurora borealis flickering overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

The gardens bursting with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama over Nice. The cemetery there holds the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the spirit of a church. Although it would never compare to grander establishments, that is precisely its charm. It has quietly absorbed generations of faith. Being there evoked a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the comfort such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of squares and winding alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic illustration of Italy's ecclesiastical architecture, featuring stunning marble and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, including an underground vault, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in the German Ruhr

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a modernist masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and stunning stained glass form a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this less-visited location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming old town down to the lake and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old building presents a diverse programme of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular venue in Switzerland's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling experience with the skill and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an inspiring site to see many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the skyline for miles in every direction. Set high up overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, fortress-like medieval marvel has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and towering columns, centered around a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. One's gaze, however, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the scores of writhing gargoyles that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a rough footpath. Parking on a nearby grass verge, visitors make their way to a building that looks more like 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 wall paintings. Box pews from the 18th century are still in situ. The overall effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather plain—a characteristic perhaps intended to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly overwhelming and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, though, lies in its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated artist Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so taken with the site that he offered to create the other panes, a task finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent range of blues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.