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Across Europe, numerous cathedrals stand as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. From modernist creations to ancient havens, here are some of the most remarkable examples as shared by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable specimen of 20th-century design. Its clean, graceful facade reflects the surrounding scenery and echoes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors will find what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could hope to experience. One stunning glass mosaic depicting Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to all tastes, but it radiates a powerful sense of majesty. Exiting the impressive structure after an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy 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 bursting with blooms and plants offer a spectacular panorama over the city. The cemetery there contains the resting place of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the essence of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to grander establishments, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the comfort such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime illustration of Italy's religious art, boasting exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, with an subterranean crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of the country's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in Germany

South of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the world's most individual and striking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century triumph built from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning stained glass create a soaring, luminous space of warmth that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Adding to the allure of this less-visited location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views stretching from the picturesque old town all the way to the lake and the far-off Alps. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a modest charge, you can climb the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century building presents a varied programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a key venue in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a humbling experience with the skill and devotion of its builders. In the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an inspiring site to see many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez towers over the skyline for miles around. Perched on a hill above the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of history's tumult. Inside is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and soaring columns, centered around a colossal pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated seats and ledges are worn smooth by time. The true attention, though, is frequently drawn to the hypnotic leer of the scores of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the exterior stonework. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this beautiful basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a nearby grass verge, visitors walk to a structure that looks more like a barn from a distance. The building is mostly from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older pre-Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The overall effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a feature possibly intended to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every surface is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, established in the 12th century, is architecturally rather simple. Its true glory, though, lies in its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he decided to design the remaining panes, a task finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this cascade of colour in a serene setting is a blissful sensation. Entry to this unique place is free.