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
Simply stunning. The stained glass scenes were impressive. They “tell the story of mankind from the creation, to Christ’s resurrection”. We really enjoyed this experience, definitely a highlight of the trip.
Sergio Colón - a week ago
The stain glass windows are breathtaking. Entry with timed tickets is a must. Bought them online the day before. Still waited about a half hour past my timed entry because of a group that they pulled ahead. Just be patient. Do not wait in line to buy tickets. That line never moved. Sorry.
Tyler Larsen - a week ago
Wow, it was an amazing experience! I loved it. When you go inside, it's a different feeling altogether. You have to look at each line from the bottom up, as each line has a separate story to tell. You also have to go to the upper level to see the stunning glass walls. And the best part? Entry is free with the Paris Museum Pass. Be sure to keep it with you wherever you go in Paris, it comes in handy!
Jay Wijayaweera - a month ago
You'll need to make reservations for your visit before visiting. Even one week in advance seems to be sufficient. So check against your itinerary and weather.
Visiting it was worthwhile albeit slightly underwhelming to be honest. Perhaps my expectations was too high? Perhaps I was expecting a more educational visit?
Jie Bo Ti - 3 weeks ago
This place is stunning. It's very understated from the outside but once you climb the winding stairs from the gift shop, it takes your breath away. There are large placards you can pickup at the chapel entrance with information about uts history and the stained glass.
Janice McDonald - 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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Accommodations near Sainte Chapelle:
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: szeke - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sjaak Kempe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: rcamboim - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Bradley N. Weber - cc license via Flickr
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