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Throughout Europe, numerous cathedrals stand as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking artistry. From modernist masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most captivating ones as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable example of modernist design. Its clean, graceful facade reflects the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, guests will find possibly the most cozy pews one could ever sit on. A stunning glass mosaic portraying Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to all tastes, but it radiates a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting this impressive structure following an organ recital to witness 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. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

The gardens bursting with blooms and plants offer a spectacular vista over the city. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the essence of a church. While it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is precisely the point. It has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Sitting there produced a feeling beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the solace these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italy's religious art, boasting exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 12th century. This medieval round church, including an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

Below Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows form a soaring, light-filled interior of welcome that defies easy categorization as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high above the city, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the lake and the distant Alps. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, visitors can climb the bell tower. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century building presents a varied schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. During the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they created a profoundly beautiful space imbued with love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring site to visit decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez dominates the skyline for miles in every direction. Perched on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like Gothic wonder has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of vaulted ceilings and soaring pillars, all framing a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. One's gaze, however, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that appear to erupt from the exterior stonework. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval protectors of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven track. Parking on a nearby verge, visitors make their way to a structure that resembles a farm building from a far away. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older pre-Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century remain in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most magnificent churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Nativity Church is quite unassuming—a characteristic possibly intended to avoid attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, however, is its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he offered to create the remaining panes, a work completed in 1985. The windows feature a dazzling spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Entry to this unique treasure is gratis.