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Throughout Europe, countless cathedrals stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning artistry. Ranging from modernist creations to ancient sanctuaries, here are some of the most captivating examples as shared by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking specimen of modernist architecture. The simple, elegant facade mirrors the surrounding landscape and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover what are arguably the most cozy pews one could hope to sit on. A breathtaking mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting this impressive structure following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

Its gardens filled with blooms and plants offer a spectacular vista over the city. The cemetery there holds the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the spirit of a church. Although it cannot rival grander establishments, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of faith. Being there evoked a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, featuring stunning marble and massive cupolas. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, with an underground crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of the country's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the municipality of this location rises one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a modernist triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass create a lofty, light-filled interior of warmth that defies easy categorization as "brutalist". Furthermore, the appeal of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas stretching from the charming old town all the way to the lake and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, you can climb the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 12th-century building presents a diverse schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular cultural hub in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. During the 1940s, at the request of the chaplain, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity during a time of war—an uplifting site to see decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez towers over the skyline for miles in every direction. Set high up above the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and towering columns, centered around a massive pipe organ. The intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. The true attention, however, is frequently captured by the mesmerizing stare of the scores of writhing grotesques that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They look less carved and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a rough track. Parking on a adjacent grass verge, visitors make their way towards a structure that looks more like a barn from a far away. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Excavations have revealed Roman floor mosaics and fragments of 14th-century frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 1700s remain in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could imagine. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite plain—a characteristic possibly designed to avoid attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's child. The artist was so impressed by the church that he decided to create the remaining windows, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this unique treasure is free.