Sainte Chapelle
Sainte Chapelle is considered to be one of the greatest achievements of the Rayonnant period in Gothic architecture
Sainte Chapelle, The Holy Chapel, is the only building that remains of the Capetian royal palace. The Sainte Chapelle was built to house the Passion Relics of King Louis IX. The relics were carried by the king himself, barefoot and dressed as a pilgrim, for the last part of their journey from Venice. These relics included the Crown of Thorns that was placed on Christ's head at his crucifixion.
The Sainte Chapelle is considered to be one of the greatest achievements of the Rayonnant period in Gothic architecture. It is designed to appear weightless and elegant. Visitors entering from the courtyard are greeted by the impressive sight of the grand ceremonial staircase and the eastern wing of Sainte Chapelle. A truly magnificent sight indeed. The name of the actual designer is up for debate. For many years it was considered to be the work of Pierre de Montreuil. This has since been revised and it is now debated whether it is the work of Jean de Chelles, Thomas de Cormont or an unidentified master mason from Amiens.
If this is not enough of an attraction, you will also be able to see one of the largest and most extensive collections of stained glass from the 13th century that is still in its original position. There are fifteen massive stained glass windows that fill the nave and apse and a rose window on the western wall. The glass depicts various scenes from both the New and Old Testaments of the Bible. There is also a depiction of how the Passion relics came to be in the Sainte Chapelle and the various miracles that they were involved in.
The Sainte Chapelle was damaged a number of times and has been lovingly restored an equal number of times. It is likely that this magnificent building will stand for many years to come. It is an ideal tourist attraction for those who love magnificent Gothic architecture as well as for those who marvel at stained glass or would just like to see the home of one of the most extensive Christian relic collections in history.
Nearby attractions: Notre Dame Cathedral and The Latin Quarter
Facts For Your Visit
Fee:Sainte Chapelle Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Address: 10 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
Phone: 01 53 40 60 80
Official Website: Sainte Chapelle
Sainte Chapelle Reviews
Rated out of 5
The stained glass windows in the chapel are one of the most awe-inspiring human creations I have ever seen. Such artistry and craft. The towering walls create a reverent atmosphere. Even the crowds of tourist feel the need to remain hushed in respect. A must-see for any sightseer or fan of architecture. Make sure to buy tickets early before your trip!
Joseph Bender - a month ago
Sainte-Chapelle is absolutely stunning and one of the most beautiful places we visited in Paris.
When we arrived, there was a long line, and staff told us it would take about one to one and a half hours to get inside. The wait was worth it, though.
The interior is breathtaking. The stained-glass windows are incredible, and when the sunlight shines through them, the whole chapel glows with color. The architecture and details are amazing and unlike anything we had seen before.
Definitely worth visiting if you’re in Paris, but be prepared for a wait during busy times.
Ami - a month ago
Sainte Chapelle is definitely a must visit while you are in Paris as it is one of the most beautifully well preserved churches thanks to the unbelievable stained glass.
Be prepared however, even with reservation tickets booked in advance, the lines can still be very long. It took us approximately 25–30 minutes to enter despite having timed tickets. There are three lines depending on your reservation time slot, plus another line for visitors without reservations. Security is also fairly strict as you must pass through a metal detector before entering.
Regardless, it is absolutely worth the wait.
Once you enter and make your way upstairs through the narrow staircase, you are immediately in awe looking upward at the dramatic stained glass surrounding the chapel. It is peaceful, unique, and honestly something pictures cannot fully capture.
You truly have to see this place in person to appreciate it.
Michael A. - 2 months ago
We enjoyed a lovely evening concert at Saint Chapelle. The chapel itself is beautiful and the music was amazing. The musicians were delightful and we enjoyed the performance. We bought tickets towards the back but I believe if I was to go again, I would pay the extra for tickets closer to the front and come earlier as the seats themselves are first come first served. It made me want to come visit the site during the daytime as well since the lighting in the stained glass would be different.
Leah Day - 2 months ago
A 5 Star place to visit in Paris. Visited during our Hop on Hop boat journey. Really really a beautiful chapel to visit in Paris. You can definitely need to book a ticket in advance else stand in queue for about an hour for entry. The inside of the buiding is small and it gets pretty crowded. Still there is no issue as the staffs are nice and helpful.
D G BERA - a month ago
Directions
| Metro / RER Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| M4 | Saint-Michel | 4 minutes |
| M1, 7, 11, or 14 | Châtelet | 6 minutes |
| RER B or C | Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame | 3 minutes |
How to get to Sainte Chapelle by Metro / RER
By Metro: From Metro Line 4 exit at Saint-Michel Station and cross the road to your right and walk north straight across the Saint-Michel Bridge and continue straight ahead to the entrance your left. From Metro Line 1, 7, 11, or 14 exit at Châtelet Station and follow Rue Saint-Denis south crossing the bridge over the River Seine. Keep walking south on Blvd du Palais to the entrance on your right a just little south of the Palace of Justice.
By RER: Take RER B or C to Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame Station; walk north across the Saint-Michel Bridge continuing to the entrance on your left.
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Photo Gallery
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Sainte Chapelle boasts some of the most beautiful stained glass in the world cc licensed photo by Eric Borda -
Photo Credit: Jose Losada Foto - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jose Losada Foto - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: szeke - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: rcamboim - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sjaak Kempe - cc license via Flickr
