by Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. There’s so much to see and do in the City of Lights, from its imposing landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral to its charming streets with quaint cafes and stores.
If you’re looking for a religious experience while in Paris, you won’t want to miss out on visiting some of its beautiful churches. Here are ten of the best ones to visit.
The history of churches in Paris is long and storied, dating back to the early centuries of the city’s founding. These places of worship have been significant not only as places of religious devotion and community but also as architectural marvels that have shaped the very landscape of the city.
One of the most famous churches in Paris is Notre Dame Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece was established in 1163 AD and has served as a model for countless other cathedrals around France, not to mention its role in some of the most pivotal moments in French history. Today, it draws millions of visitors annually to admire its beauty and experience a piece of this storied history firsthand.
Another important church in Paris is Saint-Sulpice. Located on one of the main streets that leads to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Saint-Sulpice has had a close connection with several key moments throughout French history, including both revolutions and wars. It is also known for its stunning spiral columns and beautiful baroque architecture, which draw massive crowds yearly.
Despite their importance to Parisian history, these churches are not relics from ancient times; they continue to serve an important function today as places where people can come together in faith and fellowship. Whether you’re a tourist exploring their fascinating histories or a local looking for somewhere peaceful and quiet to pray or reflect, there’s truly no better place than one of these grand old churches in the heart of Paris.
Table of Contents
- Best Churches in Paris to Visit
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Basilique de Sacre Cœur
- Sainte-Chapelle
- Saint Germain l’Auxerrois
- Église Saint-Séverin
- La Madeleine
- Saint-Eustache
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- Saint Etienne du Mont
- Sainte Clotilde-and-Saint-Valère
- FAQs
- What is the main church in Paris?
- What is Paris’ most famous cathedral?
- What is the oldest church in Paris?
- Find Things to Do in Paris
- Find Accommodation
- Explore Paris With Our Guides & Reviews
Best Churches in Paris to Visit
These are the most beautiful churches in Paris to visit.
Notre-Dame de Paris
If you’re planning a trip to Paris and are looking for the city’s most famous church, look no further than Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris. This spectacular Gothic cathedral sits proudly on the “Ile de la Cité”, the heart of Paris and one of the oldest inhabited areas in the entire city.
The site on which Notre Dame now stands has deep historical significance; it is believed to be built on top of an ancient Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter. Construction began in 1163 under the reign of Louis VII, though numerous architects worked on the site throughout its construction.
This is evident by the varying styles throughout Notre Dame’s impressive architecture. Towering high above the busy streets of Paris, this iconic landmark draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world each year – and with good reason.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about Paris’ fascinating history or simply want to admire its beautiful Gothic design, Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Paris has something for everyone.
Basilique de Sacre Cœur
The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is a beautiful and iconic landmark in Paris, located at the top of Montmartre hill. With its distinctive round structure and stunning views of the city, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The basilica was originally built as a tribute to the 58,000 French soldiers who lost their lives during the Germano-French War of 1870-1871 under Napoleon III, as well as to commemorate those who died during the brutal “Bloody Week” that followed the Paris Commune in 1871.
You can climb the stairs or take the convenient funicular to reach this historic site. Regardless of how you choose to get there, be sure to take time to appreciate this stunning monument and enjoy panoramic views of this great city. Whether a first-time traveler or an experienced wanderer, you won’t miss visiting this remarkable Basilica du Sacré-Cœur on your next trip to Paris.
Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle is one of the iconic sights on the Ile de la Cité, located within the historic Royal Palace courtyard. Originally built in 1241 by King Saint Louis as a home for two of the most important Christian relics – Jesus’ Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the True Cross – Sainte-Chapelle has since become a must-see destination for travelers from around the world. The chapel is one of the world’s most intricate and beautifully designed.
Thanks to its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows, Sainte-Chapelle offers visitors a truly unique glimpse into medieval life in Paris. Whether you’re interested in religious history or simply looking for beautiful photos to share on social media, Sainte-Chapelle is an essential stop on any trip to Paris.
Saint Germain l’Auxerrois
Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is a historic church in Paris that was originally built as a royal place for members of the French monarchy. With its location at the Louvre and its Gothic architectural style, Saint Germain l’Auxerrois has always attracted an eclectic mix of artists, courtesans, nobility, and local artisans alike. Inside the church, you can marvel at some of its beautiful stained glass windows, impressive organs, and other works of art.
Additionally, you can also check out the iconic bell that was originally put up in 1529 as a way to signal the start of the brutal Saint-Barthélémy massacre in 1572. Whether you’re visiting Paris as a tourist or simply getting to know this amazing city from afar, Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is definitely worth exploring if you want to experience a piece of French history and culture. So why not plan your next visit today? You won’t be disappointed!
Église Saint-Séverin
If you’re looking for an intriguing piece of medieval architecture in Paris, look no further than Église Saint-Séverin. This beautiful church was originally built in the XIIIth century but was damaged by a fire and had to be rebuilt in the XVth century. The name of this historic church comes from a Swiss abbot who lived in the 17th century; there is actually a statue of him on the outside.
What’s more, Église Saint-Séverin also holds a permit from the VIth century, which was granted by Séverin the Solitary himself. Make sure to check out the neo-gothic columns and the old and modern stained-glass windows, both of which are magnificent works of art. So, if you’re visiting Paris, be sure to stop by Église Saint-Séverin and enjoy its beauty and history.
See Related: Hôtel Du Louvre – The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
La Madeleine
La Madeleine is a stunning church in the heart of Paris, France. With its impressive 52 Corinthian columns and classic Greek temple-like design, it looks like something straight out of ancient Greece.
Despite being built in the 18th and 19th centuries, La Madeleine has an air of eternal grandeur and antiquity. This can be attributed to the fact that it underwent several construction phases during this period before finally being completed in 1843.
Now, La Madeleine is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. Whether you are admiring it from afar or exploring its majestic interior, La Madeleine is a must-see for anyone visiting the City of Lights. While there, stop by one of the great restaurants or shops at Place de la Madeleine.
Saint-Eustache
Saint-Eustache Church, one of the most iconic churches in Paris, was modeled after Notre Dame, with its distinctive flying buttresses and richly decorated interior. Although Saint-Eustache is Gothic in its architectural style, it boasts a wealth of Renaissance artwork, including ornate carvings and fine paintings.
Many famous historical figures are associated with Saint-Eustache, such as Cardinal Richelieu and Marquise de Pompadour, the official mistress of Louis XV. Some even received their baptism here—truly a must-see for any visitor to Paris.
See Related: Maison Albar – Le Pont-Neuf
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Saint-Germain-des-Prés has a long and varied history, having been through numerous rebuilds and renovations over the centuries. It started as an early Christian holy site in the 5th century but was quickly destroyed by Viking raiders around 860 AD.
After that, Saint-Germain-des-Prés became home to Benedictine monks for several hundred years until The French Revolution (1789), when the flames of war again destroyed it. It was not until the 11th or 12th century that Saint-Germain’s Abbey began its current incarnation, reflecting the architectural styles of the Romanesque and Gothic periods.
Even today, Saint-Germain-des-Présstands as a proud monument to its storied past, serving as an important destination for travelers from all over the world. With so much change and beauty over time, Saint-Germain-des-Prés embodies a deep sense of history, capturing its people’s resilience and spirit.
Though no one knows what the future holds for this historic site, it continues to endure with enduring vitality. And we will continue mesmerizing by Saint-Germain’s glowing spires for future generations.
Saint Etienne du Mont
Saint Etienne du Mont is a historic church in the heart of Paris. Founded in 1220, this beautiful structure has stood the test of time and has witnessed countless important historical events throughout the centuries. Its façade is a perfect example of Renaissance architecture, with a steeple dating back to the 15th century.
But Saint Etienne du Mont stands out among other churches because of its unique gothic interior design. With two spiral staircases on each side of the nave, Saint Etienne du Mont offers visitors an unforgettable experience both inside and out.
And if that’s not enough, Saint Etienne du Mont is just a few steps away from another iconic landmark: the Pantheon, originally built as a church. Whether you’re a history buff or looking to explore your cultural heritage while traveling through France, Saint Etienne du Mont shouldn’t be missed.
Sainte Clotilde-and-Saint-Valère
Sainte Clotilde-and-Saint-Valère, located between Invalides and Musée d’Orsay in Paris, is a beautiful neo-gothic church built in the mid-19th century. With its iconic twin spires reaching nearly 70 meters tall, this striking structure is a must-see for any city traveler.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive altar created by the artist Goudji, as well as stunning stained glass windows by the leading artists of their time. Whether you’re interested in history or architecture, Sainte Clotilde-and-Saint-Valère offers something for everyone.
So if you’re looking for a place to immerse yourself in the beauty of this amazing city, be sure to visit Sainte Clotilde-and-Saint-Valère on your next trip to Paris!
FAQs
What is the main church in Paris?
The main church in Paris is the famous Notre Dame Cathedral. It is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture.
What is Paris’ most famous cathedral?
The most famous cathedral in Paris is Notre Dame Cathedral. It is a Gothic-style cathedral and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The Notre Dame Cathedral is located on the Île de la Cité, in the 4th arrondissement of Paris.
What is the oldest church in Paris?
The oldest church in Paris is the Basilica of Saint-Denis, founded in the 5th century. It was built on the site of a cemetery where Saint Denis, the first Bishop of Paris, was buried. The church has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, and its current Gothic facade dates from the 13th century.
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