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Throughout the continent, numerous cathedrals stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and breathtaking artistry. From modernist creations to ancient havens, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking example of 20th-century design. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby scenery and echoes traditional local huts. Within, visitors will find what are arguably the most comfortable pews anyone could hope to experience. A stunning mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ may not be for everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving this magnificent building following an musical performance to witness the northern lights dancing in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

The gardens bursting with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama of the city. A graveyard there holds the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely captures the essence of a church. While it cannot rival more ornate establishments, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has quietly soaked up centuries of belief. Being there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italy's ecclesiastical architecture, boasting exquisite marble and imposing cupolas. However, the true highlight of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 12th century. This medieval round church, with an underground crypt, is brimming with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location stands one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows create a soaring, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above the city, the Gothic cathedral commands views that extend from the picturesque old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Aside from its impressive medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century edifice hosts a varied schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key venue in Switzerland's most lively cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its builders. In the 1940s, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to see decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Perched high up overlooking the Aveyron River, this huge, castle-like Gothic marvel has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, centered around a colossal organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. One's attention, however, is frequently captured by the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of twisting grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough track. Leaving your car on a nearby verge, visitors walk to a structure that resembles a barn from a distance. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an earlier pre-Norman structure become visible. Excavations have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 18th century are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a feature possibly designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, however, lies in its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's child. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he offered to create the other windows, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent range of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this unique treasure is gratis.