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Across the continent, numerous churches stand as testaments to belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. From contemporary masterpieces to ancient havens, we present a selection of the most captivating examples as shared by discerning visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a striking example of modernist architecture. Its simple, elegant exterior mirrors the surrounding scenery and echoes traditional Sami dwellings. Within, visitors can discover possibly the most comfortable pews anyone could hope to sit on. One stunning mural of glass portraying Christ's Second Coming might not be for all tastes, but it exudes a powerful sense of majesty. Leaving the impressive structure after an musical performance to witness the aurora borealis flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

I never understood what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez changed that.

Its grounds bursting with flowers and herbs provide a spectacular vista over the city. The cemetery there holds the resting place of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly embodies the essence of a church. Although it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is precisely its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed generations of belief. Sitting there produced a feeling beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the solace these places can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of piazzas and narrow streets, Brescia's 17th-century New Cathedral is a prime example of Italian religious art, featuring exquisite marble and imposing cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, finished in the 12th century. This medieval rotunda, including an underground crypt, is brimming with history and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches act as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Wonder in Germany

Below Essen in the town of this location rises one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, or Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and stunning coloured windows form a lofty, luminous interior of welcome that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this less-visited destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing example of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high above Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers sweeping vistas stretching from the charming historic centre all the way to the Lake Geneva and the far-off Alps. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, you can ascend the bell tower. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century building presents a diverse programme of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular cultural hub in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by Italian Prisoners of War

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the craftsmanship and faith of its creators. During the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using scraps of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful space imbued with hope and serenity amidst a time of war—an inspiring place to see many years on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

This pink sandstone cathedral in Rodez towers over the skyline for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like medieval wonder has weathered hundreds of years of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, all framing a massive pipe organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are worn smooth by ages. The true attention, though, is frequently drawn to the mesmerizing stare of the scores of writhing grotesques that seem to erupt from the exterior stonework. They look less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient protectors of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough track. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors walk to a structure that looks more like a barn from a distance. The building is primarily from the 1200s, but inside, traces of an older Saxon or early 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 place. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, close to the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming churches anyone could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is covered in luminous religious icons and narrative paintings. The effect is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, however, is its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's child. The artist was so impressed by the site that he decided to design the remaining windows, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a peaceful setting is a profoundly calming sensation. Admission to this unique place is free.