Audio GuideEglise de la Sainte Trinité

This ornate Catholic church was built in 1867 as part of Baron Haussmann's beautification of Paris.

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The Église de la Sainte-Trinité is a hidden treasure nestled in the centre of Paris. Constructed between eighteen sixty-one and eighteen sixty-seven during the era of Emperor Napoleon the Third, this church was part of Baron Haussmann’s extensive transformation of Paris. The project aimed to update the city for its expanding population, leaving a lasting impact that continues to shape Paris today.

Situated at Place d'Estienne d'Orves, three Rue de la Trinité in the ninth district, this Roman Catholic landmark is positioned at a lively intersection, easily accessible from the nearby Trinité Metro station. Its architecture combines Neo-Renaissance style with Second Empire elements. The sixty-five-metre-tall bell tower, featuring French and Italian Renaissance embellishments, creates an impressive profile against Paris's skyline.

Throughout the church's existence, it has fulfilled more than just religious duties. It was turned into a hospital during the Franco-Prussian War and served as a meeting hall during the Paris Commune. The church is also intertwined with French musical history, hosting the funerals of renowned composers such as Rossini, Berlioz, and Bizet, and later renowned for the inspiring presence of organist Olivier Messiaen.

Inside, visitors can admire rich paintings, intricate sculptures by renowned artists, and exquisite stained glass windows in the Chapel of the Virgin by Eugène Oudinot and Auguste Leloir. The presence of two magnificent organs by Cavaillé-Coll further enriches its musical heritage. This distinctive fusion of art, history, and community spirit makes the Église de la Sainte-Trinité a fascinating destination for those exploring Paris's abundant heritage.

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