🔗 Share this article

Throughout Europe, countless churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary masterpieces to ancient havens, we present some of the most remarkable ones recommended by knowledgeable travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a remarkable specimen of modernist architecture. The clean, graceful facade mirrors the surrounding landscape and evokes historic local huts. Within, guests will find what are arguably the most comfortable church benches one could ever sit on. A breathtaking glass mosaic depicting the Return of Christ may not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting this magnificent structure after an musical performance to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what visitors seek in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

The gardens bursting with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama over Nice. A graveyard there contains the resting place of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly captures the spirit of a place of worship. Although it would never compare to more ornate establishments, that is precisely the point. It has quietly absorbed generations of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the comfort these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a classic illustration of Italy's ecclesiastical architecture, boasting stunning stonework and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque rotunda, with an underground crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

Below the city of Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the world's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows form a lofty, light-filled interior of warmth that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Adding to the allure of this less-visited location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of transport engineering.

Alpine Vistas from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the Gothic cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming old town down to the lake and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the church is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the spire. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a diverse programme of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

An Orkney Shrine Created by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing 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, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a place of worship. Using scraps of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary imbued with hope and serenity during a time of war—an inspiring site to visit decades on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the horizon for kilometres in every direction. Perched high up overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, castle-like Gothic wonder has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, all framing a massive pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by ages. The true gaze, though, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing leer of the scores of writhing gargoyles that seem to burst out of the exterior walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven track. Parking on a adjacent verge, you make their way to a building that resembles a farm building from a distance. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but within, evidence of an older pre-Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered 14th-century frescoes. Enclosed seating from the 18th century are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

The village, close to the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could imagine. Externally, the Nativity Church is quite unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with vibrant religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is utterly overwhelming and immersive.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 1100s, is architecturally quite ordinary. Its true glory, however, is its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece in memory of a family's child. The artist was so taken with the site that he offered to design the other windows, a work completed in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful setting is a blissful experience. Admission to this unique place is free.