I love the smell of incense in the morning…
Let me confess: I love churches and it sometimes makes me unbearable. “Why?” you ask? Ask those who have traveled with me and they will tell you that the way I see a church I simply have to peek inside. It doesn’t matter if we are in a hurry, tired from a long day of hiking or urgently need to use the bathroom. If there is a church I stop everything and go inside.
Why do I love churches so much? There is something so mysterious about them and it seems that behind the doors there is a hidden treasure that I must discover immediately. Add to that the amazing acoustics that you discover when you are lucky and enter just as someone is practicing playing the organ. And finally the smell of incense. True, quite a few of you will think that this is a stench that the devil did not create, but I personally am crazy about this smell and can smell it every day.
Who is afraid of churches in Paris?
Don't worry, I'm not willing to exchange disbelief in one god for disbelief in another.
This immortal sentence was written by Yair Garbuz in his equally immortal book “Paris Tel Aviv – Tel Aviv Paris,” when he was asked whether he felt comfortable entering a Christian place of worship. Indeed, for some Israelis, it is an unclean and repulsive place that no Jew should set foot in for any fortune in the world. However, a large number of Israelis, and I am among them, see the church as nothing more than a free museum and a fine concert hall.
For the benefit of the second group of Israelis (which also includes quite a few religious people), I created this article. During it, I will introduce you to some of the churches in Paris that I particularly like in the hope of making your trip more interesting and beautiful. I decided to divide the article into two. In the first part, I will introduce churches that are a “must”, especially for people traveling to Paris for the first time . In the second part, I will introduce you to some lesser-known churches that I liked and that could be suitable for advanced Francophiles.
How many churches are there in Paris? And why it's impossible to write about them all
There are 37 churches and nearly 200 different religious buildings in Paris. In order to keep the article to a reasonable length, I decided to write only about churches that I particularly like. Since the choice is very subjective, it may not please all of you, and that is legitimate. Anyone who thinks that other churches should have been included in the list is welcome to comment at the end of the article or talk about it in my group Paris and Ile de France.
Since I wrote this list, I've added a full article to the site about the Saint-Roch Church in the first arrondissement, which didn't make the top ten and is worth a visit in its own right: a chain of chapels that has no parallel in Paris, the tombs of Le Nôtre, Corneille, and Diderot, and Napoleon's cannon marks on the facade.
Must-see churches in Paris
The following churches constitute, in my opinion, the “canon” of Christian architecture in Paris and are therefore especially recommended for those coming to Paris for the first time. Of course, each of us has a different “church tolerance.” Some can see 10 churches in a day, while others can sometimes see even one church a day.
Therefore, although these are must-see churches in my opinion, there is no obligation to see them all on your first time in Paris and you can leave some for future visits.
Notre Dame (Notre-Dame de Paris)
Address : 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II. 4th arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting? Because of the history and Victor Hugo.
Important note: Notre Dame Cathedral caught fire on April 15, 2019. Currently, and until the church is restored, it will likely not be possible to visit the interior.
There is no doubt that if you have to choose one and only church on your trip, then you should visit this church, which has become one of the symbols of Paris.
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture ( although it was built mostly in the 19th century ) and there is hardly a person who has not heard of it, thanks to Victor Hugo ’s book “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”. The church is located right in the center of the City of Lights (the square in front of the main gate is considered the zero point from which the distances of Paris from anywhere else in the world are measured) so there is no chance of you missing it.
The church is flooded with tourists almost every day, but it doesn’t feel crowded and the lines move quickly. The church itself is very beautiful, although in my opinion there are more beautiful Gothic churches. I’m usually against the concept of “marking V” on important places, because you have to, but in this case I’ll go out of my way and almost “demand” you visit it at least once. You’ll thank me.
And one more small thing: If you decide to take my recommendation and visit Notre Dame, I highly recommend that you take the Ile de la Cité itinerary, during which you will reach this church and the Sainte-Chapelle church, which I will talk about immediately.
Saint Chapelle
Address : 8 Boulevard du Palais, 1st arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting? Because of the amazing stained glass windows.
The Sainte-Chapelle was built by King Louis IX to house Christ's Crown of Thorns. It is very possible that this Crown of Thorns was completely fake, but the church built for it is real and it is magnificent.
You only go to Sainte-Chapelle on a sunny day to see the stained glass windows on the second floor of the church. No picture of the stained glass windows or even watching the video below can prepare you for the beauty you will see.
Unlike most churches in Paris, admission to Sainte-Chapelle is not free and it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to save time.
Links to buy tickets to Sainte-Chapelle:
Sacre Coeur
Address : 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre. 18th arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting? Because it is a symbol of Paris and because of the view.
If there is any kind of consensus about the two churches I presented earlier, it is that the Sacré-Cœur (Sacred Heart Church) is considered controversial. A large part of Parisians hate it because it symbolizes the bourgeoisie and the liquidation of the Commune. Others hate its slightly eclectic style that makes it look like a cream cake.
And yet, the Sacré-Cœur has made it onto the list of “must-see churches” for two reasons. First, it cannot be ignored that since its construction was completed in 1914, it has become one of the symbols of the city of Paris. The reason is not only its unique architecture but also its location on top of the highest hill in Paris. So, like the Eiffel Tower , it can be seen from almost anywhere in the city and is difficult to ignore.
Its elevated location leads us to the second reason why it is worth visiting. The panoramic view from it is simply spectacular. And if you listen to the wise advice of Joel Tamanlis and wait for dusk, you will discover that it is also very romantic.
Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Address : 3 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, 6th arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting? Because of the location, the history, and the spectacular renovation it has undergone.
The Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the oldest church in Paris, with parts of it surviving from the 6th century. What you'll see when you visit it is just a small part of a huge monastery that dominated large parts of the Left Bank until the French Revolution . So why is this church a must-see? For several reasons.
The first reason is its central location in the heart of the Boulevard Saint-Germain that bears its name. It is one of the most vibrant areas in Paris, so chances are you will be walking there and come across it while walking in the footsteps of Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir (or just looking for a good café).
The second reason, and the more important one in my opinion, is the massive renovation the church has undergone in recent years. Take a look at this video and see what medieval beauty, splendor, and grandeur is revealed to you:
And if all this beauty doesn't convince you, then come to Saint-Germain at least to visit Descartes' tomb. I think that means he exists there...
If all these reasons have convinced you to visit this charming church, then you are invited to read this article and discover its fascinating history and that of the neighborhood to which it gave its name.
Saint Sulpice Church
Address : 2 Rue Palatine, 6th arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting there? Because of the beauty and because of “The Da Vinci Code.”
This is the second largest church in Paris after Notre Dame and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful. You can find quite a few masterpieces inside, most notably Delacroix’s frescoes “Jacob Fighting with the Angel” and “Heliodorus Exiting the Temple.” You can also enjoy the beauty of the charming fountain located in the square opposite the church and sit in the famous cafe located right across from it. Here is a short video that shows you the beauty of the church in all its glory:
The location of the church is also simply unbeatable. On the one hand, it is near the lively Boulevard Saint-Germain (and if you go to visit the Saint-Germain Church first, you get “2 churches for the price of one”). On the other hand, it is near the Luxembourg Gardens , which of course should not be missed. And those who decide to visit both the gardens and the church will greatly enjoy the journey between the two points, because the small, picturesque streets that lead from the gardens to the church are simply charming.
But beyond all this beauty, the church of Saint-Sulpice has gained fame in recent years thanks in no small part to the Da Vinci Code, or rather, the sundial mentioned there. The clock, which was built in 1727 to help the priest of Saint-Sulpice determine when Easter falls, features in Dan Brown's book and is visited by many tourists.
If you would like to learn more about the church, you are invited to read the article Saint-Sulpice – the Foreign Minister's mistress, the famous painter, and the brothel.
Saint Eustache Church
Address : 2 Impasse Saint-Eustache. 1st arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting there? Because of the beauty and the music.
The Church of Saint-Eustache, built during the 16th and 17th centuries, is my favorite church in Paris. That’s why I’m surprised every time I travel with Francophiles in Paris , how many people don’t know about it. So why do I love this church so much and consider it one of the “must-see churches” of Paris?
First of all, it is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris. A winning combination of late Gothic and early Baroque. When you enter, you will see not only walls, columns and pictures but also some magnificent tombstones, the most beautiful of all being that of Colbert, Louis XIV 's finance minister.
Secondly, the church is located very close to Montreuil Street , one of the most lively and fun culinary streets. You will find great food shops, a food market and of course quite a few restaurants there . So you will not leave this church hungry even if you do not bite into the Holy Bread…
And finally, how can we forget the heavenly music that plays there? The organ of the Church of Saint-Eustache is probably the best in Paris. Take a few minutes, watch the video and you will understand exactly what I am talking about…
Since there are quite a few concerts in this church, you have an excellent chance to hear the organist practicing and listen to heavenly music for free, no money required.
The Pantheon
Address : Place du Panthéon. 5th arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting there? Because of all the dead VIPs buried there.
The truth is that the Pantheon (the burial place of the great men of the French nation) is not officially a place of worship, having been built since 1885 (although the cross on the roof remains). However, for the purposes of this article, we will refer to it as a church. The building that will house the Pantheon was built between 1758 and 1790 and began its career as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve. However, since then, the building has changed roles for nearly 100 years, becoming a Pantheon and a church and vice versa.
People come to the Pantheon not only to admire the charming Rococo-style building, but mainly to visit the crypt where all the greats of the French nation are buried, including Victor Hugo, Emile Zola , Marie Curie, Simone Weil, and others. It is truly a journey through the history of France over the past 200 years.
Unlike many churches, entry to the Pantheon costs money, but in my opinion it is definitely worth it. If you would like to read more about it, you are welcome to read the article The Pantheon – The Secular Tomb of France’s Greats.
Saint Louis-Saint Paul
Address : 99 Rue St. Antoine. 4th arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting? Because of the magnificent Baroque architecture.
This church was built during the 17th century by the Jesuits and is considered the main church of the Marais district . There is no doubt that if there is one thing the Jesuits knew how to do, it was build beautiful churches and this church is particularly spectacular. Go inside and take a look at the beautiful dome, the magnificent organ and the many paintings that decorate the church. Well, have you already fallen in love?
I expanded on this church in a separate article: Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis Church , with its full history, what not to miss inside, and all the practical information for visiting.
If that wasn't enough for you, you'll be happy to know that this was Madame de Savignier 's favorite church , that the organ and acoustics are excellent, and that great concerts are often played here. In short, everything a good church should contain.
The Church of the Magdalene
Address : Place de la Madeleine. 8th arrondissement.
Why is it worth visiting? Because of the magnificent architecture and the music.
The Madeleine Church will forever be associated with Fouchon, whose famous food store is located behind it. It will also be no less associated with Napoleon, who was responsible for its construction, and if you follow his itinerary on the Right Bank, you will definitely reach it.
When you step inside and see the grandeur and splendor, you will understand why I recommended you to visit it. It was not for nothing that Napoleon saw the church as a place dedicated to the valor of the French army (at a time when the word “valor” still existed in the French lexicon). The place looks like a Greek or Roman temple and although there are several other 19th century churches that are somewhat similar, I can say with certainty that its architecture is unique.
And if all this wasn't enough for you, then you'll probably be happy to hear that the acoustics in Medellin are simply excellent, which is why quite a few concerts are held there, such as this one:
So whether it's Napoleon, Fouchon or music, there's no doubt that the Madeleine Church is worth a visit.
If you would like to read more about this church, you are invited to enter the article The Madeleine Church – From an Ancient Synagogue to Napoleon's Temple of Glory.
Basilica of Saint Denis
Address : 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur. Saint-Denis suburb (outside Paris).
Why is it worth visiting? Because of the magnificent architecture and the tombs of the kings of France.
The last church in this article is not actually in Paris, but in the suburb of Saint-Denis that bears its name. And worse, it is in one of the least sympathetic suburbs of Paris. So why am I sending you there?
Because in my opinion it is the most impressive Gothic church in Paris and the surrounding area (perhaps even more so than Notre Dame) and especially because almost all the kings of France were buried here starting in the 7th century AD. Although the bones of the kings are no longer here (they were removed from their tombs and thrown away by the revolutionaries during the French Revolution ), their tombs are in the church and they are spectacular. And if you don't believe me how charming this church is, just take a look at the following short video and you will be convinced.
Like the Pantheon and Sainte Chapelle, there is a fee to enter, but in my opinion it is worth every penny. If you decide to go there, it is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance via this link.
If you would like to learn about the history of this church, I recommend that you read the article Basilica of Saint-Denis - the burial place of the kings of France (or at least most of them).
More on the subject
Zvi, thank you very much for another great article. Let me tell you a secret: you are not alone in this matter of churches, I am also a freak of them. And when I visit a synagogue, a church or various temples in the East, I feel close to the Divine Presence. In all these places everyone prays to the same God.
Thanks again.
Thank you very much for the support, Benzi 🙂
Thanks again for the information and the inviting writing. It looks promising. I've written it down as a task for my upcoming trip.
When is the Sacra Car open?
From 6 am to 10:30 pm.
Love love love thank you for giving me the opportunity to read posts, articles and every topic you bring up, an ardent fan of yours
Hello, Sherry.
What fun to read this 🙂
May you and your family have a happy and delicious holiday 🙂
deer
Besides, it's a must-see to see the Church of Saint-Denis, before it becomes a mosque.
Thank you Mon Homunim for the interesting review,
A few comments if you allow:
1. Technical: There is a problem with addresses between Skara-Carre and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
2. We (always traveling with my partner) also love to go into churches everywhere, to climb their towers, listen to the bells and concerts, and of course be impressed by the construction and artistic investment (all in the name of God, of course). Indeed, the strangest thing is to occasionally see Israelis who stay outside, even in the rain, when their group enters the church for half a minute, and when I ask why they avoid entering, I get bizarre answers! What are they wasting their money on?
3. I believe that without churches and religious worship, which I do not connect with like you, the world of art would live in terrible deprivation. Yes, I have no doubt that this is the main contribution of religion to general culture.
4. As for the choice from the list, SAINT-EUSTACH is undoubtedly the most beautiful and acoustic, the multitude of concerts there is a very accessible experience to understand to what extent churches are a source of musical inspiration.
And now a riddle: why does the Sacré-Cœur not need periodic cleaning and generally retains its structure?
Regarding the cold roof: Isn't this due to the special stone it was built from or the fact that there aren't many cars around and therefore there's no smoke to blacken it?
The stone is the test of the examiner!
.... travertine (roche blanche au grain extremely fine) qui provient des carrières de Château-Landon
Elle a été choisie par l'architecte Paul Abadie pour ses qualités de dureté et d'auto-nettoiement au contact de l'eau, ce calcaire exsudant du calcin, ce qui garde la teinte blanche de la pierre.
In short, a stone that is washed away by every rain and returns to its luster, genius,
Definitely a promising list! Without a doubt, the piece of history, especially medieval Gothic, is my favorite, thanks Zvi
Without a doubt, a compelling and wonderful list! My favorites in particular are the Gothics of the 12th century, thanks Zvi
Thank you very much. Excellent explanation!
Thank you very much. As usual, you have summarized the scattered information in my head – in an orderly manner.
A small “copy” “paste” error: In my humble opinion, the Sacra Car Church and the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés are not located at the same address.
For your care….
Thank you very much. I will fix it.
I would add Saint Severin.
Thanks for the tip. I'm currently writing a follow-up article on "Churches for Progressives" and I might very well include it because it's truly wonderful.
A beautiful and fascinating tour, thank you very much.
The pleasure is all mine 🙂
Thanks for the interesting article.
Does anyone know if the churches are open on 1.5?
There is no reason for them to be closed.