Churches of Paris: Sublime Spaces, History in Stone

Churches abound in Paris. It is difficult to imagine a visit to the city of Paris without visiting the cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris, Sainte Chapelle, or the Basilica of Sacre Coeur on the hill of Montmarte.The earliest known church in Paris was actually built before Paris was Paris. Known as Lutece to the Romans built the temple to Jupiter on the spot where Notre Dame now stands.With the spread of Christianity many churches were built by in the early days of France by the Merovingian and Carolingian kings, but little remains of them 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 the south bank of the Seine.

The only remains of that church is the Tour Clovis which sits on the grounds of the Lycee Henri IV just east of the Pantheon.

Although it has been renovated many times the church of St Germain des Pres has a bell tower that for the most part is the same one that was erected in the 11th century.

The historic churches of Paris are a mixture of styles mostly romanesque and Gothic. Some of the finest examples of Gothic art are found in the churches of the city, but mixed with elements from other styles and periods.

The exception is the church or Ste Chapelle in the 1er Arrondissement. It is one of the worlds finest examples of gothic architecture.

No matter what your beliefs or thoughts about religion the churches of Paris offer the visitor to the city a unique perspective on art, architecture and history.

There are scores of churches in the central area of Paris. Most charge no entrance fee and house some wonderful works of art.

Most continue to function as parish churches and places of worship.

Because they still are places of worship there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First of all, make sure that you are properly dressed. This doesn't mean your Sunday best, but you should be dressed at least as if you were going to a decent restaurant and not a day at the beach. Use common sense.

Churches are places of quiet and reflection. Try keeping your conversation to a minimum and tone down the volume a bit.

Got a cell phone? If possible turn it off or put it on silent mode. If you do get a call that you absolutely must take, then take it outside.

Most churches that are functioning places of worship usually have an area reserved for those who wish to pray and sit quietly. Be aware of that and respect that area.

If the church is a Catholic Church there will be an area where the sacrament is kept. These days it is usually a side altar and there will be a small votive candle burning.

For the most part the sanctuary, the area where the main altar is, is usually off limits.

Other than that and again the use of common sense and respect for others is essential, enjoy the visit. Many churches have fine examples of stain glass, interesting architectural elements and furnishings.

Many of the churches in Paris have long histories and played essential roles in the lives of the people over the centuries. They are some of my favorite places to visit. But that is another story.

1er Arrondissement