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Most of our familiar stone churches were built on wooden churches, once common in Europe. Fires, invasions and the development of new architectural styles made these churches increasingly rare to the point where they are now found only in a few European regions. From Norway to Romania, here are eight areas where this fragile heritage can still be admired.

Once home to the largest Jewish community in the world, Poland has had many synagogues built on its territory since the 16th century. Unfortunately, most of these synagogues were destroyed during the Pogroms of the Interwar period and, even more radically, during the Second World War.

Decaying Victorian mansions and cemeteries fill our imaginations when it comes to Halloween, but churches are not to be outdone in providing a sometimes spooky atmosphere, as you are about to see with the following ten examples.

A paragon of modern culture, TV series often showcases cultural heritage elements, including religious heritage buildings. As a watermark of the episodes, these buildings appear as landmarks with a decorative or active role in the unfolding of the story.

Mudéjar art is inherent in Spain. Influenced by Islamic tradition, it reflects various contemporary European styles, particularly Gothic. Present until the early 17th century, it is characterised by an extremely refined and inventive use of bricks and glazed tiles in architecture, particularly in belfries.

From the 12th to the 17th century, an association of northern trading towns known as the Hanseatic League governed trade in Europe. From Belgium to Estonia, these wealthy cities created a distinctive architectural style: brick Gothic, which inspired the construction of the following 12 religious buildings.

Italy is known for its Renaissance religious heritage. However, there is much more to Italian architecture and design than those representations, for example, the following 10 buildings, which are modernist creations.

The Second World War was a landmark event in Europe. The period that followed was forever changed politically, economically and also artistically. These 10 churches testify to the radical shift in architecture in the post-war era.

When you think of European architectural heritage, majestic gothic cathedrals with bright, stained-glass windows and high towers decorated with spires and pinnacles immediately come to mind. Built between the 12th and the 16th centuries, these 8 Gothic churches sublimate the development of a style of stonework building churches focused on height and light. Find out about our selection of 8 must-visit gothic masterpieces in Europe!

Bad weather, poor foundations, old age and renovations can all cause the demolition of a religious building. However, so can an army, as these buildings were all victims of one of Europe's most intractable conflicts.