🔗 Share this article

Throughout Europe, numerous cathedrals stand as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary masterpieces to ancient sanctuaries, we present a selection of the most captivating ones recommended by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking example of modernist architecture. Its clean, graceful exterior mirrors the surrounding landscape and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, visitors will find what are arguably the most cozy pews anyone could ever sit on. One breathtaking glass mosaic portraying Christ's Second Coming may not appeal to everyone, but it exudes a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving the impressive structure following an organ recital to witness the northern lights flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what visitors seek in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

The grounds filled with flowers and herbs provide a spectacular panorama of Nice. A graveyard on-site holds the resting place of painter Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that genuinely captures the essence of a church. Although it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is precisely its charm. It has quietly soaked up centuries of belief. Being there evoked a feeling greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the comfort these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Brescia, Italy

Tucked away within a maze of squares and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical art, boasting exquisite stonework and imposing cupolas. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This medieval rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is overflowing with history and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a microcosm of the country's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of the city of Essen in the municipality of Neviges stands one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of concrete and stunning coloured windows create a soaring, light-filled interior of welcome that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Adding to the appeal of this less-visited destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently above Lausanne, the cathedral offers views that extend from the picturesque old town down to the lake and the distant Alpine peaks. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the spire. Beyond its remarkable medieval structure and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old edifice presents a varied schedule of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, solidifying its role as a popular venue in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the Italian Chapel in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and devotion of its builders. In the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to visit many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for kilometres around. Perched high up above the Aveyron River, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has weathered centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, centered around a colossal organ. Its intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's attention, however, is frequently captured by the mesmerizing leer of the scores of twisting gargoyles that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They look less carved and more fossilised, like ancient protectors of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford stands isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven track. Parking on a adjacent grass verge, you make their way towards 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 structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The resulting effect is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the location of one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Nativity Church is quite plain—a characteristic possibly intended to not attract attention during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's remarkable feature, though, is its windows. Every single one were created by the celebrated painter Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a local couple's daughter. Chagall was so taken with the site that he offered to design the remaining windows, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful experience. Entry to this unique treasure is free.