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Across the continent, numerous churches serve as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. From contemporary masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, we present some of the most captivating examples as shared by discerning travelers.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable example of modernist architecture. Its simple, elegant facade reflects the surrounding landscape and echoes traditional local huts. Inside, guests will find possibly the most comfortable church benches anyone could hope to sit on. A stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Leaving the magnificent building following an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

Its gardens bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama of the city. The cemetery on-site contains the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the spirit of a place of worship. While it would never compare to grander buildings, that is exactly its charm. It has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of faith. Being there evoked a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the comfort these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a maze of squares and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic example of Italian religious architecture, featuring exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, with an underground vault, is overflowing with history and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

South of Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the world'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 concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a lofty, luminous interior of warmth that defies simple categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this less-visited destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views stretching from the charming historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, you can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive medieval structure and spectacular views, this 12th-century edifice presents a varied programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key venue in Switzerland's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by WWII Detainees

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. During the 1940s, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful space full of love and peace amidst a global conflict—an uplifting site to see decades later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Set high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, castle-like Gothic wonder has weathered centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, centered around a colossal pipe organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are polished smooth by time. One's attention, though, is often captured by the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that seem to burst out of the exterior stonework. They seem less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a rough footpath. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors walk to a structure that resembles a barn from a far away. The building is primarily from the 13th century, but within, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in situ. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could imagine. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a characteristic possibly designed to avoid attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, 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 overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, though, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were designed by the renowned artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's child. Chagall was so taken with the church that he decided to design the remaining panes, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a magnificent spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Entry to this unique place is gratis.