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Throughout the continent, numerous churches stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist creations to ancient havens, we present a selection of the most captivating ones recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of modernist design. Its clean, graceful facade mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most comfortable church benches one could hope to sit on. A breathtaking glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ may not appeal to all tastes, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Leaving the magnificent building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds filled with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama of the city. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely captures the essence of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival grander establishments, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Being there produced a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the solace these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a classic example of Italian religious architecture, featuring exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. Yet, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, with an subterranean crypt, is overflowing with history and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass create a soaring, luminous space of welcome that defies simple labels as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high overlooking the city, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the spire. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 12th-century building hosts a diverse programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key cultural hub in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary imbued with love and peace during a time of war—an uplifting site to see many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Set high up overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like medieval wonder has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by time. The true attention, though, is often drawn to the hypnotic leer of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that appear to erupt from the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this beautiful basilica.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby grass verge, you make their way towards a building that resembles a barn from a distance. The building is mostly from the 1200s, but within, evidence of an earlier pre-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 mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a characteristic perhaps designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. Its true glory, however, is its windows. Every single one were created by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he decided to design the remaining panes, a task finished in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful sensation. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is free.