Throughout the continent, countless churches serve as monuments of belief, heritage, and stunning artistry. Ranging from contemporary creations to centuries-old havens, we present some of the most captivating ones recommended by discerning visitors.
Commonly known as the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsøysund Kirke in northern Norway is a remarkable example of modernist design. The simple, elegant facade reflects the surrounding scenery and evokes traditional local huts. Within, visitors will find what are arguably the most cozy pews one could ever sit on. One breathtaking mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ may not be for everyone, but it radiates a profound sense of majesty. Leaving this impressive structure following an musical performance to see the northern lights dancing overhead is an unforgettable moment.
For a long time, I didn't grasp what people find in old churches. This monastery in Cimiez was different.
Its gardens filled with blooms and plants offer a magnificent vista over Nice. A graveyard there contains the grave of painter Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely embodies the essence of a church. Although it cannot rival more ornate buildings, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has quietly absorbed generations of faith. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound realization of the solace these places can provide.
Nestled within a maze of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's 17th-century Duomo Nuovo is a prime example of Italian ecclesiastical architecture, boasting stunning marble and massive domes. Yet, the real gem of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This romanesque rotunda, with an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and atmosphere. Collectively, Brescia's two main churches serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.
South of the city of Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the planet's most individual and striking cathedrals. Mary, Queen of Peace, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric balconies of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass form a soaring, luminous space of warmth that defies easy labels as "brutalist". Furthermore, the allure of this tourist-free destination is the close-by 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible example of transport engineering.
Situated prominently above Lausanne, the cathedral commands views that extend from the charming old town down to the lake and the far-off Alps. Entry to the church is complimentary, and for a modest charge, visitors can climb the spire. Beyond its impressive gothic architecture and spectacular panoramas, this 12th-century building hosts a varied schedule of no-cost concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a popular venue in Switzerland's most lively artistic city.
A visit to the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a humbling experience with the skill and devotion of its creators. In the 1940s, following a plea from the camp priest, artist Chiocchetti and his fellow prisoners transformed two joined Nissen huts into a chapel. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful sanctuary imbued with love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to visit decades on.
The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, fortress-like medieval wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a awe-inspiring space of arched roofs and towering columns, all framing a colossal pipe organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. The true attention, though, is often captured by the mesmerizing leer of the hundreds of twisting gargoyles that seem to erupt from the outside stonework. They seem less sculpted and more preserved in stone, like primeval guardians of this beautiful church.
St Oswald's in this hamlet sits isolated in a meadow, reachable solely by a uneven footpath. Parking on a adjacent verge, visitors walk towards a structure that looks more like a farm building from a distance. The building is mostly from the 1200s, but within, traces of an older Saxon or early Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered Roman floor mosaics and partially uncovered medieval wall paintings. Box pews from the 18th century are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.
The village, near Veliko Tarnovo, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could imagine. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a feature possibly designed to not attract attention during the Ottoman rule. Its interior, however, is a different story entirely. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is covered in vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is utterly overwhelming and all-encompassing.
All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. Its true glory, however, is its stained glass. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a family's daughter. The artist was so impressed by the church that he decided to design the remaining windows, a work finished in 1985. The glasswork showcase a magnificent range of blues. Sitting amidst this cascade of colour in a serene environment is a profoundly calming sensation. Entry to this extraordinary place is gratis.
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