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Across the continent, numerous cathedrals stand as testaments to belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most captivating examples recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking specimen of modernist design. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby landscape and evokes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most cozy church benches one could hope to experience. One stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming may not be for all tastes, but it exudes a profound sense of majesty. Exiting the impressive structure following an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

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

The grounds filled with blooms and plants offer a magnificent vista of the city. The cemetery on-site holds the resting place of painter Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely embodies the spirit of a place of worship. While it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of faith. Sitting there evoked a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the solace these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and winding streets, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, featuring exquisite marble and imposing domes. Yet, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, with an subterranean crypt, is brimming with history and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

Below Essen in the town of this location stands one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece built from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass form a soaring, light-filled space of warmth that defies simple labels as "cold". Adding to the appeal of this less-visited location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above the city, the Gothic cathedral offers views that extend from the picturesque old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, you can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Created by WWII Detainees

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. In the 1940s, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space full of hope and serenity during a time of war—an inspiring site to visit decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez towers over the skyline for miles in every direction. Perched on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like Gothic wonder has weathered hundreds of years of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, centered around a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. The true gaze, though, is frequently drawn to the hypnotic leer of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, you make their way to a structure that looks more like a barn from a distance. Its construction is mostly from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman church can be seen. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in place. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to 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 Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, though, is its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's child. The artist was so impressed by the church that he decided to design the other panes, a work completed in 1985. The windows feature a dazzling spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this extraordinary place is free.