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Across Europe, numerous churches serve as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking specimen of 20th-century architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional local huts. Inside, visitors can discover what are arguably the most cozy church benches one could hope to sit on. One stunning glass mosaic portraying Christ's Second Coming may not be for everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of majesty. Exiting this magnificent structure after an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

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 was different.

Its gardens bursting with flowers and herbs provide a magnificent panorama over the city. The cemetery on-site contains the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely embodies the spirit of a place of worship. While it would never compare to grander buildings, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of faith. Sitting there evoked a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the solace these places can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a prime illustration of Italy's religious art, featuring exquisite stonework and massive cupolas. However, the true highlight of the site is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, including an subterranean crypt, is overflowing with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of the country's architectural evolution.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges stands one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a lofty, luminous space of welcome that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this tourist-free location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above the city, the cathedral offers views stretching from the charming old town all the way to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Entry to the church is free, and for a small fee, you can climb the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old edifice presents a diverse programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Created by WWII Detainees

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the craftsmanship and devotion of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a time of war—an uplifting site to see decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres in every direction. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like medieval marvel has weathered hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, centered around a massive pipe organ. The elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's gaze, however, is frequently captured by the mesmerizing leer of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians 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 rough footpath. Parking on a adjacent grass verge, visitors walk to a structure that looks more like a farm building from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in place. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches anyone could imagine. Externally, the Nativity Church is quite unassuming—a characteristic perhaps designed to avoid attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its remarkable feature, though, is its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the site that he decided to design the remaining windows, a task completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is free.