The 2019 fire that engulfed Notre Dame de Paris stunned the world. It wasn’t just a loss for Paris—it felt personal, a blow to global history and culture.
But from the ashes came a surge of hope, as people everywhere rallied to restore what the cathedral represents. Paris, after all, is a city defined by its breathtaking churches.
These 13 sacred landmarks tell stories of devotion, artistry, and resilience that span centuries. Each one is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.
1. Notre Dame de Paris
The crown jewel of Parisian Gothic architecture, Notre Dame de Paris, has been a city symbol for over 850 years. This medieval engineering and artistry masterpiece began construction in 1163 and took nearly two centuries to complete.
Its iconic twin towers, intricate sculptures, and magnificent rose windows have inspired countless artists, writers, and pilgrims throughout history. Despite extensive damage in a devastating fire in 2019, Notre Dame remains integral to Paris’s cultural identity.
The ongoing restoration efforts aim to return this beloved cathedral to its former glory, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at its beauty and historical significance.
2. Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Perched atop the highest hill in Paris, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, commonly known as Sacré-Cœur, offers breathtaking views of the city below. This striking white church, completed in 1914, stands out with its unique Romano-Byzantine architecture inspired by churches such as Saint Sofia in Constantinople and San Marco in Venice.
Sacré-Cœur’s interior is equally impressive. Its apse features one of the largest mosaics in the world. The basilica’s grand pipe organ, built in 1898 by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, is considered one of the most remarkable in Paris and Europe.
Visitors can climb to the dome for panoramic views of the city or simply admire the church’s gleaming white travertine stone exterior, which seems to glow in the Parisian sunlight.
3. Sainte-Chapelle
Hidden within the Palais de Justice complex on the Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle is a true Gothic marvel that often surprises first-time visitors with its breathtaking beauty. Built by King Louis IX in just seven years in the mid-13th century, this royal chapel was designed to house precious Christian relics, including Christ’s crown of thorns.
Sainte-Chapelle’s most stunning feature is its collection of 15 towering stained glass windows, each standing 49 feet tall. These vibrant panels depict over 1,000 scenes from the Old and New Testaments, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of color when sunlight streams through.
The chapel’s delicate stone tracery and intricate sculptures further showcase the pinnacle of Gothic craftsmanship.
4. Saint-Eustache Church
Located in the heart of Paris near Les Halles, Saint-Eustache Church is a fascinating blend of Gothic structure and Renaissance detailing. Construction of this imposing edifice began in 1532 and continued for over a century, resulting in its unique architectural character.
The church’s massive proportions rival Notre Dame’s, earning it the nickname “Cathedral of Les Halles.”
Saint-Eustache is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and impressive organ, making it a favored venue for classical concerts. The church has hosted numerous historical events, including Louis XIV’s first communion and the baptisms of Cardinal Richelieu and Molière.
Its soaring vaults, intricate sculptures, and beautiful stained glass windows continue to awe visitors today.
5. La Madeleine
With its striking Neoclassical design, La Madeleine stands out among Paris’s religious buildings. It resembles an ancient Greek temple more than a traditional church. Originally commissioned by Napoleon as a monument to his army’s glory, the structure was later repurposed as a church and consecrated in 1842.
La Madeleine’s most distinctive feature is its colonnade of 52 Corinthian columns, each 65 feet high, encircling the entire building. Visitors are treated to sumptuous marble interiors, intricate sculptures, and a magnificent pipe organ.
The church’s unique architecture and central location make it a popular venue for society weddings and classical music concerts.
6. Saint-Sulpice Church
Saint-Sulpice, the second-largest church in Paris after Notre Dame, is a masterpiece of French classical architecture. Construction of this grand edifice began in 1646 and continued for over a century, resulting in its harmonious blend of Baroque and Neoclassical elements.
The church’s imposing facade, featuring a double colonnade with loggias, creates a striking impression on visitors.
Saint-Sulpice houses numerous artistic treasures, including murals by Eugène Delacroix in the Chapel of the Holy Angels. The church is also famous for its great organ, which is considered one of the finest in the world.
In recent years, Saint-Sulpice has gained additional fame as a key location in Dan Brown’s novel “The Da Vinci Code,” drawing curious literary tourists alongside art and architecture enthusiasts.
7. Saint-Étienne-du-Mont
Tucked away near the Panthéon in the Latin Quarter, Saint-Étienne-du-Mont is a hidden gem that showcases a unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Built between the 15th and 17th centuries, this church is renowned for its ornate rood screen – the only surviving example in Paris.
The intricate stone carving of this screen is a testament to the skill of medieval craftsmen.
Saint-Étienne-du-Mont also houses the shrine of St. Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris. The church’s interior features a harmonious mix of architectural elements, including soaring Gothic vaults, Renaissance galleries, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Its eclectic charm and rich history make it a must-visit for those seeking to explore Paris’s lesser-known religious treasures.
8. Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais Church
One of the oldest churches in Paris, Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais, dates back to the 6th century, though the current building was largely constructed between the 16th and 17th centuries.
The church’s facade, added in 1616, is considered the first example of French Baroque architecture in Paris. This striking frontage features three superimposed classical orders – Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.
Inside, visitors can admire a wealth of artistic treasures, including stained glass windows from the 16th century and a remarkable organ case from 1601. The church has long been associated with music, having employed several notable organists and composers over the centuries.
Despite suffering damage during World War I, Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais remains a significant historical and architectural landmark in the Marais district.
9. Val-de-Grâce Church
Originally part of a royal abbey founded by Anne of Austria, the Val-de-Grâce Church is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture. Built between 1645 and 1667, the church was commissioned to celebrate the birth of Louis XIV after years of the queen’s infertility.
Its magnificent dome, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, dominates the 5th arrondissement’s skyline.
The church’s interior is lavishly decorated with frescoes, sculptures, and ornate gilding. The dome’s underside features a monumental fresco by Pierre Mignard depicting the glory of heaven.
Today, the church forms part of a military hospital complex but remains open to visitors who wish to admire its Baroque splendor and historical significance.
10. Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis Church
Located in the heart of the Marais district, the Church of Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis is a prime example of early French Baroque architecture. Built between 1627 and 1641 by Jesuits with financial support from Louis XIII, it was the first church in Paris to break entirely from the Gothic tradition. Its elegant facade and imposing dome set a new standard for religious architecture in the city.
The church’s interior is equally impressive, featuring a wealth of artwork, including paintings by Delacroix and sculptures by Germain Pilon. Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis has witnessed significant historical events, including the funeral oration for Louis XIII and the baptism of dramatist Beaumarchais.
Its blend of architectural innovation and historical importance makes it a fascinating stop for visitors exploring the Marais.
11. Saint-Augustin Church
Designed by Victor Baltard, the architect famous for his work on Les Halles, Saint-Augustin Church uniquely blends traditional and modern elements. Built between 1860 and 1871, it showcases an innovative use of iron in its construction, allowing for a lighter and more open interior space.
The church’s eclectic style combines Romanesque and Byzantine influences with modern engineering.
Saint-Augustin’s most striking feature is its large dome, which rises to 262 feet. The interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and sculptures, including works by William-Adolphe Bouguereau.
Located in the 8th arrondissement, this church is a testament to the architectural experimentation of the Second Empire period. It offers visitors a glimpse into the evolution of religious architecture in Paris.
12. Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church
Saint-Germain-des-Prés holds a special place in the city’s history as the oldest church in Paris. Founded in the 6th century as part of a powerful Benedictine abbey, the building dates mainly from the 11th and 12th centuries. Despite numerous modifications over the centuries, it retains much of its Romanesque character, particularly in its sturdy bell tower.
The church’s interior has recently been restored, revealing vibrant frescoes and intricate architectural details. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is also known for associating with intellectual and artistic life in Paris, having been a focal point of the existentialist movement in the mid-20th century.
Today, it continues to be a center of cultural activity, hosting concerts and exhibitions alongside regular worship services.
13. Saint-Séverin Church
Saint-Séverin Church is a hidden gem of Gothic architecture in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Built primarily in the 13th and 15th centuries, it showcases the evolution of the Gothic style, from its early phases to the flamboyant period.
The church’s most distinctive feature is its double ambulatory with twisted pillars, creating a unique and mesmerizing effect. Saint-Séverin boasts an impressive collection of stained glass windows, including medieval examples and modern creations.
The church’s intimate atmosphere and rich architectural details make it a favorite among those seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience away from the busier tourist sites. Its location in the bustling Latin Quarter also makes it an ideal stop for visitors exploring this historic neighborhood.
Source:
Read Next:
Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
