Religion in Europe

Last Updated on 27 January 2026 by Johan

Religion has shaped Europe’s history, culture, architecture, and identity for more than two millennia. While Christianity remains the largest religious tradition, the continent today is marked by significant diversity and a growing number of people who identify as non‑religious. This article provides an up‑to‑date overview of Europe’s religious landscape, explains regional differences, and offers practical insights for travelers interested in exploring Europe’s religious heritage.

Overview of Europe’s Religious Landscape

According to recent studies, Christianity remains the largest religion in Europe. Roughly two‑thirds of Europeans identify as Christian, although levels of religious practice vary widely. A significant share of the population, about one‑quarter, identifies as religiously unaffiliated. Muslims make up around 6 percent of Europe’s population, with higher concentrations in southeastern Europe and major urban centers. Jewish communities, though smaller, continue to play an important cultural and historical role across the continent.

These figures reflect long‑term trends: declining Christian affiliation in many Western and Northern European countries, steady or growing Muslim populations due to migration and demographic patterns, and increasing secularization across nearly all regions.

Christianity in Europe

Roman Catholicism

Roman Catholicism is the largest Christian denomination in Europe. It is predominant in southern and parts of western Europe, including Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium, Austria, southern Germany, Poland, Croatia, Slovakia, Lithuania, and Hungary. Catholic traditions have shaped European art, music, architecture, and festivals for centuries.

Protestantism

Protestantism is strongest in northern and western Europe. Countries with significant Protestant populations include the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, and parts of Germany and Switzerland. Protestant churches vary widely, from Lutheran and Reformed traditions to Anglican and Free Church communities.

Eastern Orthodoxy

Eastern Orthodoxy is the dominant Christian tradition in eastern and southeastern Europe. Major Orthodox countries include Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, and Russia. Orthodox Christianity is known for its rich liturgical traditions, iconography, and ancient monasteries.

Islam in Europe

Islam is the second‑largest religion in Europe. Muslim communities are concentrated in southeastern Europe, where Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and Kosovo have Muslim majorities. Turkey, a transcontinental nation, also has a predominantly Muslim population, and its cultural influence extends into southeastern Europe.

In western and northern Europe, Muslim populations are primarily found in major cities such as Paris, London, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Stockholm. These communities are diverse, representing origins from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and the Balkans.

Judaism in Europe

Jewish communities have existed in Europe for more than two thousand years. Although the Jewish population is smaller today than before the Second World War, vibrant communities remain in France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and several eastern European countries. Jewish heritage sites, including synagogues, cemeteries, and museums, are important cultural landmarks across the continent.

Irreligion and Secularization

Europe is one of the most secular regions in the world. A significant and growing share of Europeans identify as atheist, agnostic, or simply non‑religious. This trend is especially strong in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, and parts of Germany and France.

Secularization does not necessarily mean the absence of religious heritage. Many Europeans continue to celebrate religious holidays, visit churches, and participate in cultural traditions even if they do not identify with a particular faith.

Regional Differences in Religion

Northern Europe

Northern Europe is characterized by high levels of secularization and historically Protestant traditions. Churches often play a cultural rather than doctrinal role, and many countries maintain national churches despite low levels of weekly worship attendance.

Western Europe

Western Europe is religiously diverse, with strong Catholic and Protestant traditions and significant Muslim communities. Secularization is widespread, especially in urban areas.

Southern Europe

Southern Europe remains predominantly Catholic, with strong religious traditions and festivals. Church attendance varies, but religious identity remains culturally significant.

Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is more religiously traditional, with strong Orthodox Christian majorities. In some countries, religious identity is closely tied to national identity.

Southeastern Europe

Southeastern Europe is the most religiously diverse region, with Orthodox, Catholic, and Muslim populations living in close proximity. This region reflects centuries of cultural exchange between Europe and the Middle East.

Religion and European Culture

Religion has shaped Europe’s architecture, literature, music, and social customs. Cathedrals, monasteries, synagogues, and mosques are among Europe’s most visited landmarks. Many European holidays, such as Christmas, Easter, and All Saints’ Day, have religious origins, even if celebrated in secular ways today.

Religious festivals remain important cultural events. Examples include Easter processions in Spain, Orthodox Easter celebrations in Greece, Christmas markets in Germany and Austria, and Ramadan festivities in cities with large Muslim communities.

Practical Information for Tourists

Europe offers countless opportunities for travelers interested in religious history, architecture, and cultural traditions. Below are practical tips and highlights for exploring Europe’s religious heritage.

Visiting Churches and Cathedrals

Many of Europe’s most famous landmarks are churches, including Notre‑Dame in Paris, St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. Visitors should be aware of dress codes, especially in active places of worship. Shoulders and knees may need to be covered in some locations.

Exploring Monasteries

Monasteries such as Mont‑Saint‑Michel in France, Meteora in Greece, and Rila Monastery in Bulgaria offer unique insights into monastic life. Some monasteries provide guided tours, while others offer overnight stays for visitors seeking a quiet retreat.

Synagogues and Jewish Heritage Sites

Jewish heritage sites include the Great Synagogue of Budapest, the Jewish Quarter in Prague, and the Jewish Museum in Berlin. Many cities offer guided tours that explore Jewish history, culture, and traditions.

Mosques and Islamic Heritage

In southeastern Europe, notable mosques include the Gazi Husrev‑beg Mosque in Sarajevo and the Et’hem Bey Mosque in Tirana. In western Europe, large mosques such as the Grand Mosque of Paris and the East London Mosque welcome visitors during designated hours.

Religious Festivals

Travelers can experience Europe’s religious diversity through festivals and celebrations. Examples include:

Museum Collections

Many museums house religious art and artifacts. The Vatican Museums, the British Museum, the Louvre, and the Rijksmuseum all contain extensive collections that illustrate Europe’s religious history.

Religion and Modern European Society

Religion continues to influence public life in Europe, though in different ways across regions. Some countries maintain state churches, while others uphold strict separation between religion and government. Debates about religious freedom, cultural identity, and secularism remain active in many European societies.

Despite differences, Europe generally upholds strong protections for religious freedom. Most countries guarantee the right to practice any religion or none at all.

Conclusion

Europe’s religious landscape is complex, diverse, and continually evolving. Christianity remains the largest tradition, but secularization and religious pluralism are reshaping the continent. For travelers, Europe offers a rich tapestry of religious heritage, from ancient cathedrals and monasteries to vibrant festivals and multicultural communities. Understanding Europe’s religious diversity enhances any journey across the continent and provides deeper insight into its history, culture, and identity.

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