Saint Germain l’Auxerrois – Overview, Location & Things to Do

There are many beautiful Catholic churches in Paris, France. A few notable examples of the most famous ones include Notre Dame, Sacré-Cœur, and Saint Germain l’Auxerrois. Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is a 12th-century church located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris.

Saint Germain l’Auxerrois

Saint Germain l’Auxerrois, Saint Germain lAuxerrois, or Church of Saint Germain l’Auxerrois, is located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris and is dedicated to Saint Germain of Paris.

It was built in the 12th century and has undergone many changes. Although it dates from the 18th century, it retains some features from earlier structures.

When the Louvre was a royal place, Saint Germain l’Auxerrois was the king’s church. It accordingly drew an assortment of royalty, including the people of art and law and local artisans.

Its architecture is in the Gothic style. Inside the church, you can admire great stained glass windows, the beautiful organ, and a few other works of art. The most notable feature is the Porte Saint-Germain, a Gothic portal added in the 14th century.

The church is also home to several important works of art, including a painting by Nicolas Poussin and a sculpture by Pierre-Alexandre’s lifetime. Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is one of the oldest churches in Paris, and it continues to be an essential part of the city’s history and culture.

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History of Saint Germain l’Auxerrois

The Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is a church in Paris with a long and complex history. Originally built in the 12th century, the church has undergone many changes over the centuries. In 1527, a fire badly damaged it and had to be rebuilt.

This site’s first house of worship was a modest oratory dating back to the 5th century. It was constructed to commemorate the meeting of Saint Germain l’Auxerrois and Saint Genevieve, the future patron saint of Paris. A big church has now replaced this building. Tombs and Stained glass were smashed during the rioting in 1831.

During the French Revolution, in 1789, it was used as a storage space for wine barrels and suffered further damage. In 1831, it was finally restored to its original Gothic style. Today, Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is a popular tourist destination, and its history is sure to fascinate visitors from all over the world.

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Main Attractions in Saint Germain l’Auxerrois

The Church of Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. It also has a large pipe organ, one of the largest in Paris.

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Stained Glass Windows

If you’re ever in Paris, be sure to swing by Saint Germain l’Auxerrois! The church is home to some of the city’s most beautiful stained glass windows. Most of the windows, dating back to the 12th century, depict scenes from the Bible. They were made by a major glass artist.

The majority of the Middle Ages and Renaissance stained glass was shattered during the Revolutionary War and the riots of 1831.

Many of the decoration’s early stained glass windows and original rose window glass were destroyed in a fire in 1871. Still, they were restored and are now a major tourist attraction. So if you’re looking for a little history and beauty all in one place, Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is the place for you.

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The Porch and the Gate 

The porch of a church is usually open to the outside and a space that serves as a shelter. It was also possible to render justice there and to proclaim various public acts. For example, the porch of Saint Germain l’Auxerrois was where penitents and catechumens once stood. It is the most striking exterior feature of the church.

During baptism celebrations, the first step is to welcome people under the porch: “It is through baptism that we cross the threshold of faith and enter the Church.” The porch is also a symbol of protection and welcome, as it is the first space guests enter when they visit a church.

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Compassion Chapel

The Chapel of the Compassion, which can be reached from the deambulatory, was formerly used as the royal chapel. It is home to one of the most important works of art in the church.

This piece of furniture was created during the late Middle Ages when artistic achievement in Flanders was at its pinnacle.

The carved sculpture represents scenes from both the Old Testament and the New Testament, full of individuals from all tiers of society. It includes kings, nobles, warriors, and peasants dressed in traditional Flemish garb.

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The Great Organ 

After the suppression of the chapter of the Sainte-Chapelle du Palais and the closing of the royal building on July 12, 1790, the great organ that was there was bought by the parish of Saint-Germain l’Auxerrois, dismantled, and reassembled in this church in July 1791. 

Like other Parisian parishes that had survived the turmoil, this one was also allocated pipes from other great organs.

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The Nave 

The church nave is the central area where the faithful gather to attend mass or other church services. The term nave also evokes the image of a boat, which is an apt metaphor for the church, a community of believers often sailing through troubled waters.

The most noteworthy feature of the church is the monumental carved wooden bank of seats in its nave, which was constructed in 1684 for Louis XIV and the royal family.

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The Altar 

The Eucharist, or mass, is celebrated at the ambo and the altar, bringing together all Christians at least every Sunday. The altar has classical or Renaissance architecture and is filled with Complex altar paintings.

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. It is at these two tables that we remember what Jesus did for us and give thanks to God. The altar is the table of the Lord, while the ambo is the table of the word.

The mass has two parts: the liturgy of the Word and the Eucharistic liturgy, but they are so closely related that they form a single act of worship.

At Saint Germain l’Auxerrois, the oldest church in Paris, the altar and ambo are placed in the center so that all Christians can gather around them to celebrate mass. The altar in this church is particularly special because it was used by Charlemagne when he was crowned emperor.

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The Chapel of the Blessed Virgin

The Chapel of the Blessed Virgin is at the end of the south aisle, on the same side as Saint Germain l’Auxerrois. It was built in the 13th century and extended in the 15th century. The chapel is four bays long, and weekday masses are celebrated here.

The Virgin Mary is France’s patron saint, so this chapel has always been a popular place of worship. It was originally the parish chapel (the large choir was reserved for the canons until 1744).

It was placed under the invocation of the Blessed Virgin on the occasion of the “Vow of Louis XIII” of February 10, 1638. Like the choir, the original altar was destroyed in the 19th century. Today, the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin remains a popular place of worship for many Catholics in Paris.

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Sculptures and the Church Bell Tower

With a rose window sculpture on the north portal, the Kings of France Archivolte of the West Front, the detail on the porch sculpture, as well as the devils and monsters Vault key sculpture, the porch is the most notable feature in terms of its design.

It is a very elaborate sculpture in the shape of a vault key bearing the inscription “Key to the Last Supper.” Outside, a sculpture seems to have been made out of slices of carp.

It refers to the donor’s name, “Bell Tower.” Only a few remaining Romanesque elements have survived in the church’s bell tower, which was constructed in the latter part of the 12th century.

Saint Germain l’Auxerrois’s bell tower is one of the church’s most iconic features. It dates from 1854 to 1862 and has undergone many changes.

The tower is now 38 meters high and is a popular tourist attraction. The only existing Romanesque element is a section of the lower bell tower that connects to a south transept from the 12th century.

The best time to visit Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is during the summer when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the church is open year-round for visitors.

The easiest way to get to Saint Germain l’Auxerrois is by metro. The closest metro station is Les Halles, just a few minutes walk from the church.

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Tips in Visiting Saint Germain l’Auxerrois

If you plan on visiting Saint Germain l’Auxerrois, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Book tours or get tickets in advance to save time
• The church is located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, so it can be easily reached by public transportation.
• It is advisable to visit during Mass times to see the church’s beautiful interior.
• Also, be sure to take a look at the statue of Saint Germain of Paris
• Saint Germain l’Auxerrois has a long history, dating back to the 12th century. The church has undergone many changes, but it remains a beautiful and popular tourist destination.
• Check out nearby attractions before or after visiting the church.

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Saint Germain l’Auxerrois Nearby Hotels

A few hotels near Saint Germain l’Auxerrois, such as the Hotel du Louvre and the Hotel de Ville.

Hotel Britannique

The Hotel Britannique is a historic hotel located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It is known for its iconic façade and luxurious accommodations. The Hotel Britannique remains one of the city’s most prestigious hotels, offering its guests a unique blend of luxury and history.

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Novotel Paris Les Halles 

The Novotel Paris Les Halles has a modern design and features amenities like a fitness and business center. It is close to attractions like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum.

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Le Relais du Louvre

The Le Relais du Louvre is a luxury hotel located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It was built in the 18th century and has undergone many renovations.

The hotel offers guests luxurious accommodations and excellent service. Its amenities include a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant.

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Best things to do Near Saint Germain l’Auxerrois

If you’re looking for things to do near Saint Germain l’Auxerrois, there are plenty of options.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is a cathedral in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. It was built in the 12th and 13th centuries and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

The cathedral has been damaged by fire and war over the years but has been restored each time. It is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world.

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Sacré-Cœur

The Sacré-Cœur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris. Visitors come from all over the world to see the church’s iconic white dome, which can be seen from all over the city.

The Sacré-Cœur is located in the 18th arrondissement, on the top of Montmartre hill. It was built in the late 19th century.

The church is built in the Romanesque style and has a beautiful stained-glass window overlooking the altar. The Sacré-Cœur is a popular place for tourists and Parisians alike.

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River Seine

The River Seine is a major river in France that flows through Paris. It has been a focal point of Parisian life for centuries and is celebrated for its beauty and historical significance.

The River is also an important transportation route, and many of Paris’ bridges cross it. There are many cruises to take on the River Seine.

The River has been an important transportation route since ancient times. It continues to play a vital role in the city’s economy today. In addition to being a major thoroughfare for goods and services, the River

The Seine is also a popular tourist destination. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the River’s beautiful scenery and historical landmarks. Whether you’re looking to take in the sights or enjoy a leisurely cruise, the River Seine will impress.

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Musee de l’Orangerie

If you’re an art lover visiting Paris, the Musee de l’Orangerie is a must-see. Founded in 1882, the museum is dedicated to the art of painting and houses a large collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artwork, including pieces by Monet, Renoir, Matisse, and Picasso.

The Musee de l’Orangerie is located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, near several other famous museums and attractions. If you’re short on time, visit it to see some of the world’s most famous paintings up close. 

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Jardin des Tuileries

The Jardin des Tuileries is a beautiful public garden located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It was created in 1664 by Louis XIV and is home to many impressive fountains and statues.

The garden is a popular spot for locals and visitors and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. You’ll find a variety of different gardens within the Jardin des Tuileries, each with its distinct character.

The Orangerie is a lovely spot to enjoy some peace. At the same time, the Grand Carrousel is perfect for those who want to take a spin on the historic carousel. Whether you’re looking to explore or relax, the Jardin des Tuileries is sure to please.

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