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Throughout Europe, countless churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning craftsmanship. Ranging from contemporary masterpieces to centuries-old havens, here are some of the most remarkable ones as shared by knowledgeable visitors.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in Tromsø is a remarkable example of 20th-century design. The simple, elegant facade mirrors the nearby scenery and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Within, guests can discover possibly the most comfortable church benches anyone could hope to experience. A stunning glass mosaic portraying the Return of Christ may not appeal to all tastes, but it exudes a powerful feeling of majesty. Leaving the impressive building after an organ recital to see the aurora borealis dancing in the sky is an unforgettable moment.

Serene Views and Artistic Legacy in Nice, France

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.

Its grounds filled with blooms and plants offer a magnificent panorama of Nice. A graveyard on-site contains the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the essence of a church. Although it cannot rival grander buildings, that is exactly its charm. For centuries, it has quietly soaked up centuries of belief. Being there produced a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep understanding of the comfort these places can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italy's religious art, featuring exquisite marble and massive domes. However, the real gem of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque round church, including an subterranean vault, is overflowing with historical charm and character. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a microcosm of Italy's changing building styles.

A Glass and Concrete Masterpiece in Germany

Below Essen in the town of this location rises one of the planet's most breathtaking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or Mariendom, is a mid-century masterpiece constructed from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning coloured windows form a soaring, light-filled space of warmth that defies simple labels as "cold". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free location is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible example of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Situated prominently above the city, the Gothic cathedral commands sweeping vistas that extend from the charming historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Entry to the cathedral is complimentary, and for a small fee, visitors can climb the bell tower. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, solidifying its role as a key venue in the nation's most vibrant artistic city.

A Chapel of Peace Built by WWII Detainees

A visit to the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and devotion of its builders. During the 1940s, following a plea from the chaplain, painter Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a place of worship. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful space full of love and peace amidst a global conflict—an uplifting place to visit decades later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rodez dominates the horizon for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this huge, castle-like Gothic wonder has survived centuries of history's tumult. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and soaring pillars, centered around a massive pipe organ. Its intricately carved seats and ledges are polished smooth by ages. The true gaze, however, is often drawn to the hypnotic stare of the scores of twisting grotesques that appear to erupt from the outside walls. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like primeval guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an Oxfordshire Field

The church of St Oswald in Widford sits in a remote field, accessible only by a uneven track. Parking on a nearby verge, you walk towards a structure that resembles a barn from a distance. The building is primarily from the 13th century, but within, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman structure become visible. Excavations have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and fragments of 14th-century frescoes. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is quite plain—a feature possibly intended to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, is a different story entirely. Every conceivable surface is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The result is utterly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Stained Glass Masterpieces in Kent, England

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. Its remarkable feature, though, lies in its stained glass. Every single one were created by the celebrated artist Marc Chagall. It started in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's child. The artist was so taken with the church that he decided to design the remaining windows, a task completed in 1985. The glasswork feature a dazzling range of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a peaceful environment is a blissful sensation. Entry to this extraordinary treasure is free.