La Sainte-Chapelle
One of the many beautiful churches in Paris that sometimes gets overlooked is the stunning gothic chapel of Sainte-Chapelle. Construction began in 1246 by King Louis IX to house many religious relics including Christ’s Crown of Thorns and a piece of the True Cross. The Chapel is enclosed in the Palais de Justice and tight security is perhaps one reason why many people unfortunately do not venture in.
Situated on the Ile de la Cité, the chapel’s stained glass is considered the best of its type in the world and two thirds are still the original pieces. There are two levels; the lower, more somber, Chapel is dedicated to the Virgin Mary with its low vaulted ceilings. The upper level is light and airy and a magnificent display of colors when the sun penetrates the stain glass windows at just the right time. This is where the statues of the twelve apostles are, and the relics are kept.
Open every day:
9h30 – 18h from March the 1st to October the 31st
9h00 – 17h from November the 1st to February the 29th
Cashdesks close 30 minutes earlier.
Closed:
January 1, May 1, and December 25. Prices: Full Price: (adults) : 6,50 €
Reduced Price: (18 to 25 yrs) : 4,50 €
Group Price: (at least 20 adults) : 5,30 €
Free for those 17 and under.
Guided visits: 1h15 in French, English, or Spanish. For other languages, and more information, click here.
Photo Credit: Flickr
6 Comments
This is one of my fondest memories of Paris. The Sainte-Chapelle chapel is one of the most beautiful places in Paris, and not to be missed.
I know! When the sun is shining, (not always the case in Paris!) and the light comes streaming in through the stained glass windows; it’s a sight to behold!
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nice church.
As I’ve already mentioned (but bears repeating) Igre, try to go when the sun is shining so you can appreciate the light coming through the stained glass windows!