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Throughout the continent, countless churches stand as testaments to faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable example of modernist architecture. Its clean, graceful facade reflects the nearby landscape and echoes traditional local huts. Inside, guests can discover possibly the most comfortable pews one could hope to experience. A breathtaking mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ might not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of grandeur. Leaving this magnificent building after an musical performance to see the northern lights dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

I never understood what people find in churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama over the city. A graveyard there contains the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly captures the essence of a church. Although it would never compare to more ornate establishments, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up generations of belief. Being there evoked a sensation beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the comfort such spaces can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and winding streets, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a classic example of Italian ecclesiastical art, boasting stunning stonework and imposing domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, with an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

Below the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges rises one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows create a lofty, luminous interior of warmth that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre all the way to the lake and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the spire. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice hosts a diverse programme of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a key venue in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the skill and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful space imbued with love and peace during a global conflict—an uplifting site to see decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Set on a hill above the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. The intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. The true gaze, though, is often drawn to the mesmerizing leer of the scores of twisting gargoyles that appear to burst out of the outside walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent verge, visitors walk towards 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 structure become visible. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The result is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, though, lies in its windows. Every single one were created by the celebrated artist Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the church that he offered to design the other windows, a task completed in 1985. The windows feature a dazzling range of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a blissful sensation. Admission to this unique place is gratis.