🔗 Share this article

Across the continent, countless churches serve as testaments to belief, heritage, and breathtaking craftsmanship. Ranging from modernist creations to centuries-old havens, here are a selection of the most remarkable examples as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking example of 20th-century architecture. The clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby landscape and echoes traditional local huts. Within, visitors can discover possibly the most cozy church benches anyone could hope to experience. One breathtaking glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ may not be for everyone, but it exudes a powerful feeling of grandeur. Leaving this impressive building after an musical performance to see the aurora borealis dancing 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 people find in churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with flowers and herbs provide a spectacular panorama of the city. A graveyard on-site holds the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the essence of a church. While it would never compare to grander buildings, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of faith. Sitting there evoked a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep realization of the comfort such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a prime illustration of Italy's religious architecture, boasting exquisite marble and massive cupolas. However, the true highlight of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, 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 perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the municipality of this location rises one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows create a soaring, luminous interior of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas stretching from the picturesque old town down to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alpine peaks. Entry to the church is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice presents a varied schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a popular venue in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a humbling experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its builders. In the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, painter Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From scraps of whatever they could find, they created a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity during a global conflict—an inspiring place to visit decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Perched high up above the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, all framing a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. The true gaze, however, is frequently captured by the hypnotic leer of the scores of writhing grotesques that seem to burst out of the exterior stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough track. Parking on a adjacent grass verge, you walk towards a building that looks more like a farm building from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but within, traces of an earlier pre-Norman structure become visible. Excavations have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and fragments of medieval frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in situ. The resulting effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a characteristic possibly intended to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable surface is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is architecturally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, however, is its windows. Every single one were created by the renowned painter Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the site that he offered to design the remaining windows, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling range of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful sensation. Admission to this extraordinary place is gratis.