Readers' Favourite Cathedrals in Europe: A Tour of Spiritual Wonders

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

A Modernist Delight in Norway

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a striking 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 cozy pews anyone could hope to sit on. A breathtaking glass mosaic portraying Christ's Second Coming might not be for all tastes, but it exudes a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting this magnificent structure following an organ recital to see the aurora borealis flickering in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

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

The grounds filled with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent panorama of the city. A graveyard on-site holds the grave of painter Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that truly captures the spirit of a place of worship. Although it cannot rival grander establishments, that is exactly its charm. It has unobtrusively absorbed centuries of belief. Sitting there evoked a sensation greater than mere peace or tranquility; it was a deep realization of the solace such spaces can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Tucked away within a labyrinth of squares and winding streets, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a classic illustration of Italian religious architecture, featuring stunning stonework and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the complex is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 1100s. This medieval round church, including an underground vault, is overflowing with history and character. Collectively, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of the country's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Masterpiece in Germany

Below Essen in the municipality of this location rises one of the planet's most individual and striking religious buildings. Mary, Queen of Peace, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist triumph constructed from 1966 and 1968. Uneven galleries of raw concrete and dazzling stained glass create a lofty, light-filled interior of warmth that defies simple categorization as "cold". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free destination is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Situated prominently overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral commands views that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the lake and the distant Alps. Admission to the cathedral is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the bell tower. Aside from its impressive gothic architecture and breathtaking panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a popular venue in the nation's most vibrant cultural centre.

A Chapel of Peace Created by WWII Detainees

A visit to the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a humbling encounter with the craftsmanship and faith of its builders. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Chiocchetti and his comrades converted a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using leftover materials of whatever they could find, they created a beautiful sanctuary full of love and peace amidst a global conflict—an inspiring place to see decades on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

The pink sandstone cathedral in the town of Rodez towers over the skyline for kilometres in every direction. Perched on a hill overlooking the River Aveyron, this immense, fortress-like Gothic wonder has weathered hundreds of years of history's tumult. The interior is a awe-inspiring space of vaulted ceilings and towering pillars, centered around a massive organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are polished smooth by ages. The true gaze, though, is frequently captured by the hypnotic stare of the scores of twisting grotesques that appear to erupt from the outside stonework. They look less carved and more fossilised, like primeval protectors of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in this hamlet sits isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a uneven footpath. Parking on a nearby verge, visitors make their way to a building that resembles a barn from a far away. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older pre-Norman church can be seen. Excavations have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and fragments of 14th-century wall paintings. Box pews from the 1700s are still in situ. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent tranquility.

An Interior Canvas in Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is the location of one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches one could encounter. Externally, the Nativity Church is rather plain—a feature possibly intended to avoid attention during the Ottoman rule. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every inch of wall and ceiling is covered in luminous religious icons and narrative paintings. The result is truly overwhelming and immersive.

Winning Tip: Stained Glass Masterpieces in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, established in the 12th century, is structurally rather simple. The church's true glory, though, lies in its stained glass. All twelve were designed by the renowned artist Marc Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window dedicated to a local couple's child. Chagall was so impressed by the site that he offered to design the remaining panes, a task finished in 1985. The windows feature a magnificent range of blue hues. Being surrounded by this sea of blue in a peaceful environment is a blissful sensation. Entry to this unique treasure is free.