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The earliest known example of Paris Churches was actually built before Paris was Paris. While the city was known as Lutèce to the Romans, the church of Saint Etienne was built on the foundations of the Temple to Jupiter, on the spot where Notre Dame cathedral now stands. With the spread of Christianity, many Paris churches were built by the Merovingian and Carolingian kings, though little remains of those today. When Clovis I made Paris his capital in the middle of the 6th century, he built the abbey of Saints Peter and Paul on Mount Ste. Geneviève, where now stands the Panthéon and the church of St. Etienne du Mont. Although the church of St. Germain des Prés has been renovated many times, its bell tower, for the most part, is the same one that was erected in the 11th century. The historic Paris Churches are a mixture of styles, though mostly Romanesque and Gothic. Some of the finest examples of Gothic art are the churches of this city, including Sainte Chapelle, one of the world's finest constructions of Gothic architecture. No matter what your beliefs or thoughts about religion, the churches of Paris offer the visitor a unique perspective on art, architecture and history. Many of the churches in Paris are not only excellent examples of period architecture but they house some stunning and priceless art treasures. There are fine examples of wood carving in the pulpits, frescoes and murals on chapel walls and ceilings, excellent sculptures and paintings from some of the recognized masters of art and, of course, stained glass. If you are interested in the history of churches in Paris, take a look at this very interesting book. "The aim of all churches in Paris is to be a place of visitation, welcoming tourists and passers-by; a haven of peace, beauty and hospitality, rich in history. Their accessibility, and the willingness of the men and women who maintain the churches and greet visitors speak softly of God's goodwill to the hearts of those who accept to enter His house. But they also express the church's esteem for for those who venture in, coming just as they are, with their own lives, their questions, their richness, their world. In that hospitable relation between church and visitor, how can we fail to recognize each other? We are certain that a new Word is born of each encounter and that the guest leaves the church stronger and beautified." Isabelle Renaud-Chamska President of Art, Culture and Faith, Paris There are over thirty memorable and historically significant churches in Paris. None of them charge an entrance fee. Most function as parish churches and places of worship. Because of this, there are a few things that should be kept in mind: Many of these Paris churches have long histories and have played essential roles over the centuries. They may become among your favorite places to visit. Paris Churches by Arrondissement
1er Arrondissement
2eme Arrondissement 3eme Arrondissement
4eme Arrondissement
5eme Arrondissement
6eme Arrondissement
7eme arrondissement
8eme Arrondissement
9eme Arrondissement
10eme Arrondissement
11eme Arrondissement
12eme Arrondissement
13eme Arrondissement
15eme Arrondissement
16eme Arrondissement
17eme Arrondissement
18eme Arrondissement
19eme Arrondissement
20eme Arrondissement
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