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Throughout Europe, countless churches stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning artistry. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, we present some of the most remarkable ones recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking specimen of 20th-century design. The clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding landscape and echoes historic local huts. Inside, visitors can discover possibly the most cozy church benches one could ever sit on. A stunning glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ may not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving this impressive building after an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its gardens filled with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent panorama over Nice. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely captures the essence of a church. While it cannot rival grander buildings, that is exactly the point. It has quietly soaked up centuries of faith. Being there produced a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a profound understanding of the comfort these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a classic example of Italy's religious art, boasting stunning stonework and massive domes. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, including an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of this location rises one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a soaring, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges easy categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the lake and the distant Alps. Entry to the church is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice presents a diverse schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. In the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful space imbued with love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to see decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres around. Set on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like Gothic wonder has weathered centuries of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. Its intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. The true gaze, though, is often drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the scores of twisting gargoyles that seem to burst out of the outside stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven track. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, you make their way to a building that resembles a barn from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but within, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic perhaps intended to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly breathtaking and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 1100s, is structurally rather simple. Its true glory, though, is its windows. All twelve were designed by the celebrated artist Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he decided to design the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is free.