🔗 Share this article

Across the continent, numerous churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most remarkable ones as shared by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a striking specimen of modernist design. The clean, graceful exterior reflects the surrounding landscape and echoes traditional local huts. Within, visitors will find what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could ever sit on. A breathtaking mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming might not appeal to all tastes, but it exudes a profound sense of grandeur. Exiting this impressive structure after an organ recital to see the northern lights dancing overhead is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Artistic Legacy in the French Riviera

For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

The grounds bursting with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent panorama over the city. The cemetery there contains the resting place of artist 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 faith. Being there evoked a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the solace such spaces can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Nestled within a maze of squares and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italy's religious architecture, boasting exquisite marble and imposing cupolas. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, with an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the town of this location rises one of the world's most individual and striking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph built from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass form a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high above Lausanne, the cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre down to the lake and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Aside from its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 12th-century edifice presents a diverse programme of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a key venue in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by WWII Detainees

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. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace during a global conflict—an uplifting place to visit decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral in Rodez dominates the skyline for kilometres around. Perched high up overlooking the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, all framing a colossal organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. One's attention, however, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of twisting grotesques that seem to burst out of the exterior walls. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, visitors walk to a structure that looks more like a farm building from a far away. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman church can be seen. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in situ. The overall effect is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is quite unassuming—a feature possibly designed to not attract attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, though, is its windows. Every single one were created by the celebrated artist Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's daughter. The artist was so taken with the church that he offered to create the remaining panes, a work completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this unique place is gratis.