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Across the continent, numerous cathedrals stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning artistry. From modernist creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a remarkable specimen of 20th-century design. The clean, graceful exterior reflects the surrounding scenery and evokes historic local huts. Inside, guests can discover what are arguably the most comfortable pews anyone could hope to sit on. A stunning glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ might not appeal to all tastes, but it radiates a profound feeling of majesty. Leaving this impressive structure after an organ recital to see the northern lights flickering in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what visitors seek in churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama over the city. A graveyard on-site contains the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the spirit of a church. Although it would never compare to more ornate establishments, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has quietly soaked up centuries of belief. Being there produced a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the solace such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical art, featuring stunning stonework and massive cupolas. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

Below Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows create a soaring, luminous interior of welcome that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently above the city, the Gothic cathedral commands views stretching from the picturesque historic centre all the way to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice presents a diverse programme of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular venue in Switzerland's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the skill and faith of its builders. In the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a beautiful space imbued with love and peace during a global conflict—an uplifting place to visit decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres around. Perched high up overlooking the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has weathered centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a massive organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's attention, though, is often captured by the hypnotic leer of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that appear to erupt from the exterior walls. They seem less carved and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking basilica.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, you make their way to a structure that resembles a farm building from a distance. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, evidence of an older Saxon or early Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s remain in situ. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to avoid suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is adorned with luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. All twelve were designed by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a family's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the church that he offered to design the other panes, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this unique treasure is free.