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Across Europe, numerous churches serve as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most captivating examples as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of modernist design. The clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and evokes historic local huts. Inside, guests can discover possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could hope to sit on. A stunning mural of glass depicting Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to all tastes, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Exiting this impressive building after an organ recital to witness the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what people find in churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants offer a spectacular panorama of Nice. A graveyard there holds the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. While it cannot rival grander establishments, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of faith. Being there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the comfort these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic example of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, boasting stunning stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the true highlight of the site is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

Below Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass form a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that defies easy categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this less-visited destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular views, this 800-year-old edifice presents a varied programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in Switzerland's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the skill and devotion of its creators. During the 1940s, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they created a profoundly beautiful space imbued with love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring site to visit decades on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for miles in every direction. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic marvel has survived centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, centered around a colossal organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. One's gaze, however, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval protectors of this striking 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. Parking on a nearby grass verge, visitors walk to a structure that looks more like a barn from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an older pre-Norman structure become visible. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s remain in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches anyone could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is rather plain—a feature perhaps designed to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its true glory, however, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's child. The artist was so impressed by the church that he decided to create the remaining windows, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a dazzling range of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful sensation. Admission to this unique treasure is free.