Discover Paris' Most Enchanting Churches
Paris, a city with deep Catholic roots, is adorned with an array of magnificent churches that are not only places of worship but also repositories of art and history. These sacred sites offer a tranquil retreat for prayer and reflection, as well as a feast for the eyes of art and architecture enthusiasts.
1. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
The iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture, stands majestically in the city's medieval core. Despite the 2019 fire that damaged its roof and spire, the cathedral's facade remains a sight to behold. Reconstruction efforts are underway to restore its grandeur.
Address: Parvis de Notre Dame, 75004 Paris
Official site: http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/en/
2. Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle is a radiant chapel known for its breathtaking stained-glass windows that depict biblical stories across 600 square meters. Built for Louis IX, it now hosts classical music concerts, offering an unforgettable auditory and visual experience.
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3. Eglise Saint-Sulpice
Famous for its feature in "The Da Vinci Code," Eglise Saint-Sulpice is a Baroque gem with a Neoclassical facade. Inside, visitors can admire Delacroix frescoes and listen to the church's renowned organ during concerts.
Address: Place Saint-Sulpice, 75006 Paris
4. Basilique du Sacré-Coeur
Perched atop Montmartre, the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is a Romanesque-Byzantine masterpiece with a striking white exterior. Known for its perpetual adoration of the Holy Sacrament, it offers panoramic views of Paris.
Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris
Official site: http://www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com/english/
5. Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés
As Paris' oldest church, Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés boasts a Romanesque nave and hosts classical music concerts. It's nestled in the vibrant Latin Quarter, surrounded by historic cafes and patisseries.
Address: 3 Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, 75006 Paris
6. Eglise Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois
This church showcases a blend of architectural styles and is known for its rose windows and historical significance as a royal chapel. It offers daily Mass and Gregorian chant services.
Address: 2 Place du Louvre, 75001 Paris
7. Eglise Saint-Séverin
Eglise Saint-Séverin, a Gothic marvel, is adorned with ancient stained-glass windows and hosts organ concerts during the Paris Organ Festival.
Address: 3 Rue des Prêtes Saint-Séverin, 75005 Paris
8. Eglise Saint-Eustache in Les Halles-Beaubourg District
With its grand dimensions and stunning stained-glass windows, Eglise Saint-Eustache is a go-to for sacred organ music and is home to France's largest organ.
Address: 146 Rue Rambuteau, 75001 Paris
9. Eglise Val-de-Grâce
This Baroque church is part of a 17th-century convent and features a dome with a fresco by Pierre Mignard. It's connected to a museum dedicated to French military medical history.
Address: 277 Bis Rue Saint-Jacques, 75005 Paris
10. Eglise Saint-Etienne-du-Mont
This church combines Renaissance and Late Gothic elements, with a prized rood screen and stained-glass windows that illuminate its sanctuary.
Address: Place Sainte-Geneviève, 75005 Paris
11. Eglise Sainte-Marie-Madeleine
La Madeleine, a Neoclassical temple-like church, is adorned with Corinthian columns and houses a Cavaillé-Coll organ used for concerts.
Address: Place de la Madeleine, 14 Rue de Surène, 75008 Paris
12. Eglise Saint-Louis en l'Île
Dedicated to Saint Louis, this Baroque church on Île Saint-Louis is known for its music festivals and proximity to the famous Berthillon ice cream parlor.
Address: 19 Rue Saint-Louis en l'Île, 75004 Paris
Explore More: Beyond these historic churches, Paris offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including world-class museums and charming neighborhoods. For day trips, consider visiting the Château de Versailles or Mont Saint-Michel.
