No matter what your religion, there’s something special about churches and cathedrals. Maybe it’s the history, the architecture, or the atmosphere, but these sacred spaces have a way of captivating us. If you’re lucky enough to be in Paris, you’ll find some of the most beautiful examples of religious architecture in the world.
From the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral to the lesser-known Église de la Daurade, these are 12 of the most beautiful churches and cathedrals in Paris.
1. La Madeleine
La Madeleine is one of the most iconic buildings in Paris. The neoclassical church was built in the 18th century, and its design was inspired by Rome’s Pantheon. La Madeleine is located in the 8th arrondissem*nt, near some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre Museum.
Visitors can admire the church’s ornate exterior, which is decorated with Corinthian columns and statues of Biblical figures. Inside, the church is equally impressive, with a soaring nave and beautiful stained glass windows. La Madeleine is open to visitors daily, and Mass is held several times a week.
Whether you’re a religious traveler or simply an admirer of fine architecture, a visit to La Madeleine is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Paris.
Address: Pl. de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris, France
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2. Saint Sulpice
Saint Sulpice is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris. The church is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can also explore the crypt, which houses the tomb of Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
Saint Sulpice is also home to a famous pipe organ, which is often used for concerts and other events. In addition, the church regularly hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. Whether you’re interested in history or art, Saint Sulpice is definitely worth a visit.
Address: 2 Rue Palatine, 75006 Paris, France
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3. Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic structures in Paris. The soaring Gothic architecture is impossible to miss, and it has been a major tourist destination for centuries. But there is more to Notre Dame than meets the eye.
The cathedral is home to many priceless works of art, and its history dates back to the 12th century. A visit to Notre Dame is a truly memorable experience. The exterior of the cathedral is covered in intricate carvings, and the interior is filled with beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors can also climb to the top of the famous bell tower for stunning views of the city.
No matter how many times you have seen pictures of Notre Dame, nothing can prepare you for the beauty of this magnificent structure.
Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
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4. La Sainte-Chapelle
La Sainte-Chapelle is a beautiful Gothic chapel in the heart of Paris. Built in the 13th century to house the Crown of Thorns, it is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. The exterior is imposing and austere, but the interior is light and airy, with soaring stained glass windows that fill the space with color and light.
Today, La Sainte-Chapelle is a popular tourist destination, and it is well worth a visit when you are in Paris. The chapel is open daily, and there is no charge to enter. So if you are looking for a unique and beautiful place to explore, be sure to add La Sainte-Chapelle to your list.
Address: 10 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
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5. Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Situated on top of the Butte Montmartre, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city from the basilica’s steps, and on a clear day, the Eiffel Tower can even be seen in the distance.
Inside, the basilica is just as impressive with its soaring ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows. While entrance to the basilica is free, there is a small fee to enter the crypt. Here, visitors can learn about the history of the Sacré-Cœur and see some of the original foundations of the church. A visit to Sacré-Cœur is a must for any traveler to Paris.
Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
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6. Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés
When you visit Paris, one of the must-see sights is Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This historic church is located in the heart of the city, in the Saint-Germain district. The church dates back to the 6th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Paris.
The current building was constructed in the 12th century, and it has been home to many important events throughout history. Today, Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a popular tourist destination, and it is well worth a visit.
The church is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, and it is truly a sight to behold. The interior of the church is just as impressive as the exterior, with stunning stained glass windows and intricate sculptures. There is also a museum on site, which houses a collection of artifacts from the church’s long history.
If you are interested in learning more about Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or if you simply want to admire its beauty, be sure to add it to your list of places to see in Paris.
Address: 3 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris, France
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7. Saint Germain des Prés Abbey
The Church of Saint Germain des Prés Abbey is one of the oldest and most famous churches in Paris. It was founded in the 6th century by Saint Germain, Bishop of Paris. The church has been a site of pilgrimage for centuries, and is still an important destination for tourists and locals alike.
The Abbey is located in the heart of the Saint Germain district, just a short walk from the Seine River. The church is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and its Gothic exterior is decorated with stained glass windows and intricate carvings.
Inside, the church is equally impressive, with a soaring ceiling and a wealth of historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the Abbey’s many rooms and chambers, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred space. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a place to relax, the Church of Saint Germain des Prés Abbey is definitely worth a visit.
Address: 3 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris, France
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8. Saint-Jacques Tower
Saint-Jacques Tower is one of the most prominent landmarks in Paris. Standing over 200 feet tall, it is visible from nearly anywhere in the city. The tower was built in the early 16th century as part of a church, but the church was destroyed during the French Revolution.
Today, Saint-Jacques Tower is open to the public and offers stunning views of Paris. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower, where they will be treated to a 360-degree view of the city.
On a clear day, it is even possible to see all the way to the Eiffel Tower. Saint-Jacques Tower is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris.
Address: Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques, 75004 Paris, France
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9. Saint-Séverin Church
Saint-Séverin is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the city. The church dates back to the 13th century, and it’s been incredibly well preserved. The exterior is covered in intricate carvings, and the interior is equally impressive with its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows.
Even if you’re not religious, Saint-Séverin is definitely worth a visit for its historical and architectural significance. Plus, it’s located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, which is one of the most vibrant and exciting areas of the city.
So whether you’re interested in history or just want to explore a beautiful church, be sure to add Saint-Séverin to your list of places to see in Paris.
Address: 2 Rue des Prêtres Saint-Séverin, 75005 Paris, France
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10. Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul
The Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul is a beautiful church located in the heart of Paris. The church was built in the early 19th century and is known for its Neo-Gothic design. The exterior of the church is covered in intricate carvings, and the interior is decorated with stained glass windows and ornate paintings.
The church also has a large pipe organ, which is used for musical concerts and religious services. Visitors to the Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul can explore the church’s numerous works of art, listen to a concert, or attend a religious service. Mass is held every day, and visitors are welcome to join in.
The Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul is an excellent example of Gothic architecture, and it is well worth a visit when in Paris.
Address: Square Cavaillé-Coll, 75010 Paris, France
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11. Chapel of the Miraculous Medal
The Church of the Chapel of the Miraculous Medal is one of the most beautiful and historic churches in Paris. Built in 1842, it is best known for its connection to the apparition of the Virgin Mary to Saint Catherine Laboure. Today, the church is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics from all over the world.
The exterior of the church is Neo-Gothic in style, with soaring spires and intricate stone carving. The interior is just as stunning, with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and a wealth of religious artwork. The highlight of the church is the Chapel of the Miraculous Medal, which contains the relics of Saint Catherine Laboure. Visitors can also see a replica of the medal itself, which is said to have been struck by Mary herself.
Whether you are a devout Catholic or simply a lover of history and architecture, a visit to the Church of the Chapel of the Miraculous Medal is sure to be a memorable experience.
Address: 140 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris, France
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12. Église de la Daurade
The Church of Église de la Daurade is one of the most iconic and well-known churches in Paris. Situated on the banks of the River Seine, it is best known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows.
The church dates back to the 13th century, and was originally built as a chapel for the students of the nearby college. However, it soon became a popular place of worship for Parisians from all walks of life. Today, the Church of Église de la Daurade is open to visitors from all over the world, and is widely considered to be one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks.
Whether you’re a religious person or not, a visit to this stunning church is sure to leave you in awe.
Address:1 Place de la Daurade, 31000, Toulouse France
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In conclusion
So there you have it – twelve of the most beautiful churches and cathedrals in Paris. Each one is unique and special in its own way, and all are definitely worth a visit if you’re in the city. So whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply want to explore some of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks, be sure to check out these churches and cathedrals.
