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Across Europe, numerous cathedrals serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and breathtaking artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in Norway

Often called the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a remarkable example of 20th-century design. The clean, graceful facade mirrors the nearby landscape and echoes historic local huts. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most comfortable pews one could ever experience. A stunning glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ may not be for all tastes, but it radiates a profound sense of grandeur. Exiting this impressive building following an musical performance to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring moment.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in Nice, France

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

The gardens bursting with flowers and herbs offer a spectacular vista over the city. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of painter Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the spirit of a church. Although it would never compare to grander buildings, that is precisely its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there produced a feeling greater than mere calm or serenity; it was a deep understanding of the comfort these places offer.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a maze of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic example of Italian religious art, featuring stunning marble and imposing cupolas. However, the true highlight of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This romanesque round church, including an underground crypt, is overflowing with historical charm and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's two main churches act as a perfect snapshot of the country's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in the German Ruhr

South of Essen in the municipality of this location stands one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as Mariendom, is a mid-century triumph built between 1966 and 1968. Uneven balconies of raw concrete and stunning stained glass create a lofty, light-filled space of welcome that challenges easy categorization as "cold". Adding to the appeal of this tourist-free location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an amazing feat of engineering.

Alpine Vistas from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking the city, the cathedral offers views stretching from the picturesque historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the church is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the spire. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old building presents a varied schedule of no-cost performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a popular cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands is a profoundly moving experience with the skill and faith of its builders. In the Second World War, following a plea from the camp priest, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. From leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they fashioned a profoundly beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity during a time of war—an inspiring site to visit many years on.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for kilometres in every direction. Set on a hill above the River Aveyron, this huge, fortress-like Gothic marvel has weathered centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of arched roofs and soaring columns, centered around a colossal organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by time. One's gaze, though, is often drawn to the hypnotic leer of the hundreds of writhing grotesques that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They look less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like ancient protectors of this striking basilica.

Mysterious Beauty in an English Meadow

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, accessible only by a rough footpath. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors make their way towards a structure that looks more like a barn from a distance. The building is mostly from the 1200s, but inside, traces 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 overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming churches one could encounter. From the outside, the Nativity Church is rather unassuming—a feature perhaps designed to not attract suspicion during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is adorned with luminous religious icons and narrative paintings. The effect is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

The small church in Tudeley, established in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, however, is its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the renowned artist Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a local couple's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the site that he decided to create the other panes, a task completed in 1985. The windows showcase a dazzling spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a peaceful setting is a blissful sensation. Entry to this unique place is free.