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Throughout the continent, countless churches stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to ancient sanctuaries, here are some of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking example of 20th-century design. The simple, elegant exterior reflects the nearby scenery and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Within, visitors can discover what are arguably the most comfortable pews anyone could hope to sit on. One breathtaking mural of glass depicting Christ's Second Coming may not appeal to all tastes, but it exudes a powerful sense of majesty. Exiting this impressive building after an organ recital to see the northern lights flickering in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

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

Its grounds filled with flowers and herbs offer a spectacular panorama of the city. The cemetery on-site holds the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the essence of a church. Although it cannot rival grander buildings, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of faith. Sitting there produced a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the comfort these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow alleys, Brescia's Baroque New Cathedral is a prime example of Italian religious art, featuring exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the town of this location rises one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of concrete and stunning coloured windows form a soaring, light-filled interior of warmth that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this tourist-free location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high overlooking the city, the Gothic cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the picturesque old town down to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old building presents a varied schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular venue in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a humbling experience with the skill and devotion of its creators. In the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, painter Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity during a time of war—an inspiring place to visit many years later.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the skyline for miles in every direction. Set high up above the Aveyron River, this huge, castle-like medieval wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, all framing a massive pipe organ. The intricately carved seats and ledges are polished smooth by time. The true attention, though, is frequently drawn to the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that seem to burst out of the exterior stonework. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like primeval protectors of this beautiful church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Parking on a nearby verge, you walk to a structure that looks more like a barn from a far away. Its construction is mostly from the 1200s, but within, traces of an earlier pre-Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 1700s remain in situ. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent churches one could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a feature possibly designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is adorned with vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, though, is its stained glass. All twelve were designed by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he decided to create the other windows, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a magnificent range of blues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this unique place is free.