Religious monuments in Paris Region

The cathedral is truly an icon of the culture and heritage of France. After the fire, the entire nation rallied around to breathe new life into the building. More than a century earlier, it was a novel written by the likes of Victor Hugo that had saved the cathedral from demolition.

Take a guided tour to learn about the consecration of Napoleon Bonaparte and other stories that lie behind the cathedral of Notre-Dame.

Located a stone’s throw from Notre-Dame de Paris, the Holy Chapel was built in the 13th century by order of the King, Louis IX (Saint Louis) What’s so unique about this religious monument? Its stained-glass windows exceeding 600 m². Comprising 1,113 scenes, they portray passages from the bible and key moments in the history of Christianity. When the sun shines through them, the chapel is transformed into an amazing kaleidoscope of colours.

Looking for an alternative way to visit the Holy Chapel? Try a narrated tour to unveil the monument’s secrets. Not forgetting the ‘Heures Musicales’ events, to celebrate music in its very quintessence.

Perched at the top of Montmartre hill, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica towers majestically over Paris. Around it, the atmosphere is always buzzing, with tourists eager to explore the district, dancers and acrobats performing on the street, and artists painting portraits for couples.

Step inside this Romanesque and Byzantine monument, to admire one of the world’s largest mosaics (480 m²), which depicts Christ in Majesty. A fascinating piece packed with incredible detail. For an even more immersive experience, climb the 300 steps to the dome where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view over the rooftops of Paris.

In the 7th arrondissement of Paris, like a golden lantern dominating its surroundings, the Invalides Dome never fails to catch the eye. Established by Louis XIV in the 17th century to house wounded soldiers, it is now a key attraction in the City of Light. Napoleon was laid to rest in the crypt, surrounded by the sarcophaguses of French military figures who left their mark on History.

The full beauty of the site is revealed in an immersion experience entitled Aura Invalides. Book ahead to visit after dusk and see the Dome and the chapels enhanced by superb displays of music and light.

To the north of Paris, the Saint-Denis Basilica is famous for being the necropolis of the kings and queens of France. This religious monument was one of the first examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. It would influence the construction of many cathedrals to come. Visiting this site, you’ll see the tombs of nearly 70 monarchs of France, including Francis I, Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette.

The Basilica also attracts art enthusiasts and music fans by hosting regular exhibitions and concerts. But its biggest event is the Saint-Denis festival which gives pride of place to music with a top-quality line-up attracting a wide audience year after year.

Royaumont Abbey, located in Asnières-sur-Oise about 30 kilometres from Paris, is one of the largest Cistercian abbeys in the Île-de-France region. Established by Saint Louis in the 13th century, it was restored to its former glory in 2016.

In addition to its architectural quality, the abbey is also a culture venue. It hosts dancers and musicians in residency and organises a rich cultural programme that brings the public and the artists together.

In the heart of the Latin quarter, the Great Mosque is more than just a place of worship. The monument alone deserves a visit, with its 33-metre-tall minaret, its mosaics and its Andalusian-style garden, not to mention the hammam and the tearoom. All sorts of events are held within these walls, including lectures, author sessions and live concerts. And if you want a souvenir to take home, pop to the souk where you’ll be spoilt for choice between decorative objects, beauty products, tableware and much more!

With its vault reaching higher than that of Notre-Dame, this 800-year-old church is nicknamed the ‘cathedral of Les Halles’. Saint-Eustache church is a mix of Gothic architecture and Renaissance influences. Completed in 1637, it is famous among other things for its church organ, one of the biggest in Europe, which resounds throughout the building during the many concerts held here.
Fun facts: Richelieu and Molière were christened here. Louis XIV received his First Communion here. And Jean de La Fontaine is buried here.

Unique by its appearance, the church of La Madeleine looks more like a Roman temple than a traditional church, with its 52 Corinthian columns and its lack of a bell or a cross. Located near Place de la Concorde, its imposing neoclassical style was the choice of Napoleon who intended it as a temple to the glory of his army.

Inside, the church features some surprising works of art, such as the fresco in the apse. And if you’re more into music, read on! The church has a cultural programme of gospel performances and classical concerts.

The first stones of this church were laid in the 9th century. It is the final resting place of Empress Eugénie and Queen Hortense. The church is worth a visit just for its beautiful marble tomb and its mix of classical and Romanesque architecture. A short distance from the monument, take the time to visit the Château de Malmaison, the place of residence of Napoleon and the Empress, who spent the last days of her life here.

This church is known across the world thanks to Vincent Van Gogh, who immortalised it in one of his most famous paintings, The Church at Auvers. Visit this religious monument within easy reach of Paris, to see for yourself why the artist was so inspired by its lines and colours.

And take a stroll around the church to walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh, who lived in Auvers-sur-Oise and painted a number of scenes here.