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Throughout Europe, numerous churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning artistry. From modernist masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are some of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable example of 20th-century architecture. The simple, elegant exterior mirrors the nearby landscape and echoes historic local huts. Within, visitors can discover possibly the most cozy pews one could hope to experience. A stunning glass mosaic depicting Christ's Second Coming may not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting this impressive building after an musical performance to see the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

Its gardens filled with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama of the city. A graveyard there holds the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the essence of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is precisely the point. It has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the solace such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italy's religious art, featuring stunning stonework and imposing domes. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 12th century. This medieval rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is overflowing with history and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass create a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that defies easy categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the charming historic centre down to the lake and the distant Alps. Entry to the church is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the spire. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 12th-century building presents a diverse schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular venue in Switzerland's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace during a global conflict—an inspiring site to see many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Set high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, centered around a massive pipe organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by time. The true attention, however, is frequently captured by the hypnotic leer of the scores of writhing gargoyles that appear to burst out of the outside walls. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in this hamlet stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough track. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors walk towards a building that resembles a barn from a distance. The building is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an earlier pre-Norman church become visible. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 18th century remain in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

The village, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is quite unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to not attract attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, though, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were designed by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a local couple's child. The artist was so taken with the church that he decided to design the other panes, a task finished in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful setting is a blissful sensation. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.