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Across the continent, numerous churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking example of modernist architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes traditional Sami dwellings. Within, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable pews anyone could hope to experience. One stunning glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ might not be for all tastes, but it radiates a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving the impressive building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its grounds filled with flowers and herbs provide a spectacular vista over the city. The cemetery there holds the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the spirit of a church. While it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is exactly its charm. It has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Being there produced a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace such spaces can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic illustration of Italy's ecclesiastical art, featuring exquisite marble and imposing domes. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This medieval round church, including an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. 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

Below the city of Essen in the town of this location rises one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a lofty, luminous space of welcome that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this tourist-free location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral offers views stretching from the charming old town down to the lake and the distant Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century building presents a varied programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular cultural hub in Switzerland's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful space imbued with love and peace during a global conflict—an inspiring site to visit decades on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Set on a hill above the Aveyron River, this immense, fortress-like medieval marvel has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, centered around a colossal organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by time. The true gaze, though, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing leer of the scores of writhing grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this striking church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven track. Parking on a nearby grass verge, visitors make their way to a structure that looks more like a farm building from a far away. The building is mostly from the 1200s, but inside, traces of an older pre-Norman church become visible. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in situ. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most magnificent churches one could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a feature possibly intended to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, however, is its windows. All twelve were created by the renowned artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a local couple's child. Chagall was so impressed by the church that he offered to create the remaining panes, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork showcase a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this unique place is gratis.