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Throughout Europe, countless churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and breathtaking artistry. From modernist creations to ancient havens, we present a selection of the most captivating ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable specimen of modernist architecture. Its simple, elegant exterior reflects the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional local huts. Within, guests can discover possibly the most comfortable pews anyone could ever sit on. One breathtaking glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ may not be for all tastes, but it radiates a powerful sense of majesty. Leaving the magnificent building after an musical performance to witness the aurora borealis flickering in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama over Nice. A graveyard on-site holds the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly captures the spirit of a church. While it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a feeling beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the solace these places can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italian religious art, boasting exquisite stonework and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 12th century. This medieval round church, with an underground crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of this location rises one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and stunning coloured windows create a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that defies easy categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high above Lausanne, the cathedral commands views stretching from the charming historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is free, and for a modest charge, you can climb the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century edifice presents a diverse programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular cultural hub in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by WWII Detainees

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling experience with the skill and faith of its builders. In the 1940s, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity during a global conflict—an uplifting site to visit many years later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the horizon for miles in every direction. Perched on a hill above the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has weathered hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and soaring columns, centered around a colossal organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. The true attention, though, is frequently captured by the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that appear to burst out of the exterior stonework. They look less carved and more fossilised, like ancient protectors of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough track. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, visitors make their way towards a structure that looks more like a barn from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but within, evidence of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in situ. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could imagine. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a feature possibly intended to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, though, is its windows. Every single one were created by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's child. Chagall was so taken with the church that he offered to create the other windows, a work finished in 1985. The windows feature a dazzling range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this extraordinary place is gratis.