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Throughout Europe, numerous cathedrals stand as testaments to belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, we present a selection of the most captivating examples as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking specimen of 20th-century design. Its clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby landscape and echoes historic local huts. Within, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable pews anyone could hope to experience. A stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming may not appeal to everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Leaving the impressive building following an musical performance to witness the northern lights flickering overhead is an unforgettable moment.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds filled with blooms and plants provide a spectacular panorama of Nice. The cemetery there contains the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the essence of a place of worship. While it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Being there produced a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the comfort these places offer.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and winding alleys, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a prime example of Italian religious art, boasting exquisite stonework and imposing domes. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, including an underground vault, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the world's most individual and striking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph constructed between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of raw concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a lofty, luminous interior of warmth that challenges easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this less-visited location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming historic centre down to the lake and the far-off Alpine peaks. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular views, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular venue in the nation's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a humbling encounter with the skill and devotion of its creators. In the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful sanctuary imbued with love and peace during a time of war—an inspiring place to visit many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez towers over the skyline for miles around. Set high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, fortress-like Gothic wonder has survived hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, all framing a massive pipe organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. The true attention, though, is often captured by the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that appear to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval protectors of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet sits in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Parking on a nearby verge, you make their way towards a building that looks more like a farm building from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older pre-Norman structure become visible. Archaeological digs have revealed Roman floor mosaics and fragments of 14th-century wall paintings. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most magnificent churches one could imagine. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a feature possibly designed to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. The church's true glory, though, is its stained glass. All twelve were created by the celebrated artist Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he offered to create the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Entry to this extraordinary place is free.