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Throughout Europe, countless churches serve as testaments to faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to centuries-old havens, here are some of the most captivating examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable specimen of modernist architecture. The clean, graceful exterior reflects the surrounding scenery and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors can discover what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could hope to sit on. One stunning mural of glass depicting the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it radiates a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting this impressive structure after an organ recital to see the aurora borealis flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

The gardens bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent vista of the city. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly captures the essence of a place of worship. While it would never compare to grander establishments, that is exactly the point. It has unobtrusively soaked up generations of faith. Being there produced a feeling beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic illustration of Italy's ecclesiastical art, boasting stunning marble and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Old Cathedral, completed in the 1100s. This medieval rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the town of this location stands one of the planet's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, or Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph built from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and stunning stained glass create a lofty, light-filled interior of warmth that challenges easy labels as "cold". Furthermore, the appeal of this tourist-free destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views that extend from the picturesque old town down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Admission to the church is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old building presents a diverse schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key venue in the nation's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its builders. In the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. From scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they created a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a time of war—an uplifting site to see many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres around. Perched on a hill above the River Aveyron, this huge, castle-like medieval wonder has weathered centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, centered around a massive pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. One's attention, though, is often drawn to the hypnotic stare of the scores of writhing grotesques that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They look less carved and more fossilised, like primeval protectors of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a uneven footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby verge, visitors walk to a structure that resembles a farm building from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, traces of an earlier Saxon or early Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a feature possibly intended to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, though, is its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so taken with the site that he offered to design the remaining panes, a task completed in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling range of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Entry to this extraordinary place is gratis.