Audio GuideSainte-Chapelle
Ornate, 13th-century, Gothic chapel with relics & notable stained-glass windows of biblical scenes.
Church
Paris, France
Sainte-Chapelle, located in the heart of Paris on the Île de la Cité, is a magnificent Gothic chapel from the thirteenth century. Commissioned by King Louis the Ninth, it was intended to house revered Christian relics, most notably the Crown of Thorns believed to have been worn by Christ. Upon entering, you are immediately struck by the breathtaking stained glass windows. With more than one thousand one hundred panes, they infuse the space with vibrant colours and narrate biblical tales, including Moses parting the Red Sea and the Passion of Christ.
This chapel is a shining example of Rayonnant Gothic architecture, boasting elegant arches and an impressive rose window symbolising the apocalypse. It withstood difficulties during the French Revolution, when it was used as a granary, but has been lovingly restored. Nowadays, Sainte-Chapelle functions as a museum where visitors can appreciate its exquisite artistry and delve into its rich history.
Annually, the chapel hosts concerts that harmoniously blend beautiful music with the serene ambience. Entrance for adults costs eleven and a half euros, while younger visitors and European Union residents under twenty-six can enter for free. To maximise your visit, consider exploring nearby sights like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Conciergerie. You could also enjoy a meal at local eateries such as Les Deux Magots, either before or after your tour. Sainte-Chapelle offers a fascinating glance into the medieval past of Paris, making it ideal for those in search of beauty and history.
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