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Throughout the continent, countless cathedrals serve as monuments of faith, history, and stunning artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most captivating examples as shared by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking specimen of 20th-century architecture. Its simple, elegant facade mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors will find what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could ever sit on. One stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming might not be for all tastes, but it radiates a profound sense of grandeur. Leaving the magnificent building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants provide a spectacular vista of Nice. The cemetery there holds the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely embodies the essence of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to grander establishments, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up generations of faith. Sitting there produced a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italy's religious architecture, featuring exquisite stonework and massive domes. Yet, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This medieval round church, with an underground crypt, is overflowing with history and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals act as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the town of this location stands one of the world's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of concrete and dazzling coloured windows create a soaring, luminous space of welcome that defies easy categorization as "cold". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral commands views that extend from the picturesque historic centre down to the lake and the far-off Alps. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key venue in the nation's most lively artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving experience with the skill and devotion of its creators. In the 1940s, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful space imbued with love and peace amidst a time of war—an inspiring place to see decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Perched on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, castle-like medieval wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring pillars, centered around a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's attention, however, is frequently drawn to the hypnotic leer of the scores of twisting grotesques that seem to burst out of the outside walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient protectors of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a rough track. Parking on a adjacent verge, you make their way towards a building that resembles a farm building from a distance. The building is mostly from the 13th century, but within, evidence of an older pre-Norman church become visible. Archaeological digs 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, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a feature perhaps intended to avoid suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is truly breathtaking and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, however, lies in 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 family's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the church that he offered to design the remaining windows, a work completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a magnificent range of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming experience. Admission to this unique treasure is free.