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Across Europe, numerous cathedrals serve as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. From modernist masterpieces to ancient havens, we present some of the most captivating ones as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable example of modernist architecture. The clean, graceful facade mirrors the nearby scenery and evokes historic local huts. Inside, guests can discover possibly the most comfortable pews one could ever sit on. One stunning mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ might not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving this magnificent building after an musical performance to see the northern lights flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

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

The gardens bursting with flowers and herbs offer a spectacular vista over Nice. A graveyard on-site holds the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. Although it would never compare to more ornate buildings, that is precisely the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up generations of faith. Being there produced a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a classic illustration of Italian religious architecture, featuring stunning marble and massive cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, including an underground vault, is overflowing with history and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple labels as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the picturesque old town down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the church is free, and for a small fee, you can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular views, this 800-year-old building hosts a diverse programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a key venue in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its builders. During the Second World War, at the request of the chaplain, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an uplifting place to see many years later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Perched high up above the Aveyron River, this huge, castle-like medieval marvel has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, centered around a massive organ. The intricately carved seats and ledges are polished smooth by time. The true gaze, though, is often drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They look less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval protectors of this beautiful basilica.

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 nearby grass verge, you make their way towards a building that looks more like a barn from a far away. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older pre-Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and fragments of 14th-century wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 18th century remain in place. The overall effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches one could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a characteristic possibly designed to not attract attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, though, lies in its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he offered to design the other panes, a work finished in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling range of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this unique place is gratis.