The Paris Traveler

La Sainte-Chapelle

by Lynn on July 9th, 2007

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

Share This

Related Stories

Sainte ChapelleA Church of MiraclesThe Place Saint-Sulpice

POSTED IN: History & Information, Things To See & Do, Tours - Guided Or Self-Guided