Readers' Beloved Churches in the Continent: A Tour of Spiritual Marvels

Throughout Europe, numerous cathedrals stand as monuments of faith, history, and breathtaking artistry. From contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old havens, we present some of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a remarkable specimen of 20th-century design. The clean, graceful exterior reflects the nearby landscape and evokes traditional Sami dwellings. Inside, guests can discover what are arguably the most comfortable church benches one could hope to experience. A breathtaking mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ may not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of majesty. Leaving this impressive building after an organ recital to see the northern lights dancing in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

The grounds filled with blooms and plants provide a spectacular vista of Nice. A graveyard there holds the grave of artist Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely captures the essence of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to grander establishments, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed generations of belief. Sitting there produced a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace such spaces offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic example of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, boasting stunning stonework and massive cupolas. Yet, the real gem of the site is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 1100s. This medieval round church, including an underground vault, is overflowing with history and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

South of the city of Essen in the town of Neviges stands one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph built from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of concrete and dazzling coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that defies simple categorization as "cold". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an amazing example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above Lausanne, the cathedral offers sweeping vistas that extend from the picturesque historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Entry to the church is free, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century edifice presents a varied schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a key cultural hub in Switzerland's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its creators. During the 1940s, at the request of the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful space imbued with love and peace during a time of war—an uplifting place to visit decades on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for miles around. Perched on a hill above the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like medieval marvel has weathered centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a gasp-inducing chamber of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, centered around a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. The true gaze, however, is frequently drawn to the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They look less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval protectors of this beautiful church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a rough footpath. Leaving your car on a adjacent grass verge, you walk to a structure that looks more like a barn from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older pre-Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century remain in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a feature possibly designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, though, is its windows. Every single one were designed by the renowned painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's child. The artist was so taken with the church that he decided to create the other panes, a work completed in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent range of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene setting is a blissful experience. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.