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Throughout Europe, countless churches stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From modernist creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking specimen of 20th-century architecture. Its simple, elegant exterior mirrors the surrounding landscape and evokes traditional Sami dwellings. Within, guests will find possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could ever experience. One breathtaking mural of glass depicting Christ's Second Coming may not be for everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of majesty. Leaving the impressive structure after an musical performance to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

The grounds bursting with blooms and plants offer a spectacular vista of Nice. The cemetery there holds the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the spirit of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is exactly its charm. It has quietly soaked up generations of belief. Being there produced a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the solace these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a prime illustration of Italy's religious architecture, featuring stunning marble and imposing cupolas. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, including an underground crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in Germany

Below Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning coloured windows create a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that challenges easy categorization as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views stretching from the picturesque old town down to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a varied schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its creators. In the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful space full of love and peace amidst a time of war—an uplifting place to see many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres around. Perched on a hill above the Aveyron River, this huge, castle-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, all framing a massive pipe organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's gaze, however, is often drawn to the mesmerizing leer of the scores of writhing grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient protectors of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet sits in a remote field, reachable solely by a uneven track. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors make their way towards a structure that resembles a barn from a distance. Its construction is mostly from the 13th century, but within, evidence of an earlier Saxon or early Norman church become visible. Excavations have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in place. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic perhaps designed to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is truly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. Its true glory, however, lies in its windows. All twelve were created by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a family's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he offered to create the remaining windows, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful environment is a blissful sensation. Entry to this unique treasure is free.