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Across Europe, countless cathedrals serve as testaments to belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. From contemporary masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, here are some of the most captivating ones recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking specimen of modernist architecture. The clean, graceful facade reflects the nearby landscape and echoes historic local huts. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable pews one could hope to experience. A breathtaking mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ might not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Exiting this magnificent structure following an organ recital to witness the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

I never understood what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

Its gardens bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama over the city. The cemetery on-site holds the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the spirit of a place of worship. While it would never compare to grander establishments, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Being there evoked a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the solace these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and winding alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic example of Italy's ecclesiastical art, featuring exquisite stonework and imposing domes. However, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This medieval round church, including an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

Below Essen in the town of this location rises one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a modernist triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that defies simple categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral offers views stretching from the charming historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Entry to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the spire. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century building hosts a varied schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in the nation'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 profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful space full of hope and serenity during a global conflict—an inspiring site to see many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Set high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, fortress-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. The true gaze, however, is often drawn to the hypnotic stare of the scores of twisting grotesques that seem to burst out of the outside stonework. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald 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 towards a structure that resembles a farm building from a distance. The building is mostly from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s remain in place. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to avoid suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were created by the renowned painter Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the church that he decided to design the other windows, a work finished in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling range of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful sensation. Admission to this unique treasure is gratis.