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Across Europe, numerous churches stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From contemporary masterpieces to ancient havens, here are some of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking specimen of modernist design. The clean, graceful facade reflects the nearby scenery and echoes traditional local huts. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most cozy church benches one could hope to sit on. One breathtaking glass mosaic depicting Christ's Second Coming might not be for all tastes, but it exudes a powerful feeling of majesty. Exiting this impressive structure following an organ recital to see the northern lights dancing overhead is an unforgettable moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

The gardens bursting with blooms and plants provide a spectacular panorama of Nice. The cemetery on-site holds the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly captures the essence of a place of worship. While it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Being there produced a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the solace such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, featuring stunning stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 12th century. This medieval round church, including an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act 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 stands one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and stunning coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled space of warmth that challenges easy categorization as "cold". Adding to the appeal of this less-visited location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above the city, the cathedral commands views that extend from the charming historic centre down to the lake and the far-off Alps. Entry to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 12th-century building hosts a varied programme of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. During the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, 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 beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity during a global conflict—an uplifting site to visit many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Perched high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of vaulted ceilings and soaring pillars, all framing a massive pipe organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. The true gaze, though, is often captured by the hypnotic leer of the scores of writhing gargoyles that appear to burst out of the exterior stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby verge, visitors make their way to a building that looks more like a barn from a distance. The building is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s are still in place. The resulting atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather plain—a characteristic perhaps designed to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 1100s, is architecturally rather simple. The church's remarkable feature, however, lies in its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so taken with the church that he offered to design the other windows, a task completed in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent spectrum of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a peaceful environment is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this unique place is free.