Sainte-Chapelle – Paris : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
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- 5 Jul, 2023
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Sainte-Chapelle, located in the heart of Paris, is one of the most impressive and awe-inspiring pieces of architecture in France. Dating back to the 13th century, this spectacular Gothic-style chapel is a must-see for anyone looking to explore the beauty and history of the City of Lights. Here you’ll find interesting facts, information, andtravel tips to help plan your visit to this spectacular site. Whether it’s enjoying the spectacular stained-glass windows, exploring its intricate architecture, or learning about the chapel’s rich history, you’re sure to be amazed by the beauty of Sainte-Chapelle. So get ready to explore one of Paris’ most iconic attractions and step back in time.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Sainte-Chapelle – Paris
1. The Sainte-Chapelle is made up of two floors. The lower floor is a hall of Romanesque style, and the upper chapel is made up of three levels formed by two-story tall windows.
2. Despite the small size of the chapel, it houses some of the most well-known stained glass windows in the world, including the rose window that dominates the chapel’s exterior.
3. The building is known for its intricate masonry, including gables, arches, and vaults. The original builders used a mix of limestone, brick, and sandstone in construction.
4. While the chapel is the most prominent structure on the island of the ile de la Cite, it was built as part of a larger ensemble, known as the Palais de la Cite.
5. In the 19th century, the chapel was saved from destruction after it was declared a national monument in 1862.
6. In 2008, Sainte-Chapelle underwent a full restoration, which revealed a layer of 14th century wall paintings that had been covered by whitewash. The restoration also uncovered a hidden cross, as well as evidence of the chapel’s use during the French Revolution.
7. The chapel is currently open to the public, and a light and sound show is held each night. The chapel also hosts concerts and exhibitions, as well as religious services several times a week.
History & Information About Sainte-Chapelle – Paris
The Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic style royal chapel located in Paris, France. It is located within the Palais de la Cité, the former residence of the French monarchs. The Sainte-Chapelle was built in 1248 by King Louis IX as a palace chapel to house the Crown of Thorns, a relic brought back from the Crusades. The upper level of the chapel is composed of a single large room, filled with stained glass windows that span an incredible 18 meters in height. Its walls are decorated with the finest sculptures and paintings of its time.
The Sainte-Chapelle was used by the French monarchy until the 16th century, when it was given to the Palais de Justice. The chapel was restored in the mid-19th century and has since become a popular tourist destination. Today, it is a national historic monument as well as a protected UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Sainte-Chapelle still remains one of the most architecturally intact examples of Gothic architecture. Its stained-glass windows are considered some of the finest examples of medieval art in the world. It is also known for its superb acoustics, sometimes hosting concerts and performances. The chapel is open to visitors from April to October and is available for private hire for culture and film events.
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Travel Guide For Visiting Sainte-Chapelle – Paris
, France
Sainte-Chapelle is a must-see medieval structure located in Paris, France. The chapel was built by King Louis IX in the 1200’s, and it was designed to house relics such as the crown of thorns and other religious artifacts. The French Gothic architectural style brings an overwhelming sense of awe to visitors.
Getting There:
You can reach Sainte-Chapelle by taking the Metro’s line 11, getting off at the Cité stop. It’s also a short walk from other popular destinations such as the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame.
Hours:
Sainte-Chapelle is open every day except Sundays and select public holidays. In the summer from April 1st to October 31st, it is open from 9:00am to 6:30pm and in the winter, from November 1st to March 31st, it is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Admission:
Admission tickets cost 12€ for adults, 10€ for EU citizens aged 18-25, and 6€ or children aged between 11-17 and EU citizens under 18. There are also discounted package deals available.
What to See and Do:
Once you’ve reached the chapel, take your time to marvel at the stained glass windows and other intricate details. There are also guided tours available, although these need to be booked in advance. Don’t forget to check out the St. Louis crypt, where the King and his family are buried. For added convenience, there are several audio guides available in different languages.
Nearby Attractions:
If you’re in the area, don’t forget to visit the Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s less than ten minutes away and is a great place to explore the more-modern 19th century architecture that dominates Paris.
For those looking for something out of the ordinary, the Catacombs of Paris or the Paris Sewers Museum are both unique and interesting options. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, why not take a stroll down to one of Paris’ best patisseries, where you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sainte-Chapelle – Paris
Q: What is Sainte-Chapelle?
A: Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic chapel located in Paris, France, that was constructed in the 13th century. It was commissioned by the French king, Louis IX, as a royal chapel to house the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the True Cross.
Q: How big is Sainte-Chapelle?
A: Sainte-Chapelle is about 60 meters high and 24 meters wide. It includes two levels with the larger, lower level dedicated to holding a large collection of religious relics followed by an upper level filled with 15 stunning stained glass windows.
Q: Is Sainte-Chapelle open to the public?
A: Yes, Sainte-Chapelle is open to the public for tours year-round. It is located within the protective walls of the Palais de la Cité.
Q: What is the history behind Sainte-Chapelle?
A: Sainte-Chapelle was built on the orders of King Louis IX between 1239 and 1248. The Chapel was the home of the Crown of Thorns relic until King Charles V had it moved to the Louvre Museum in the 14th century. Today, Sainte-Chapelle is a historic monument and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.