In continuing our series, The Art of Paris, we have chosen to include the beautiful chapel, Sainte-Chapelle. The artisans that created the stained glass windows must be celebrated and honored! Walking into this chapel is like walking into your very own jewelry box filled with precious stones.
I had never heard of the destination until a cousin at a family reunion shared his experience with me. He is an incredibly talented interior designer with exquisite taste. Years ago, he stumbled upon this jewel and told me I had to go, so of course, I listened.
The first time I visited Paris was kind of a mistake. I was planning to visit a friend in Turkey and needed to use frequent flyer miles. For the life of me I could not figure out how to get back to the States, so I called the airline for help. The airline representative was able to get me home, but the ticket had to include an overnight stay in either Paris or Amsterdam. Paris please! Then he informed me I could extend my stay several days without an additional cost. Wow! Bonus Destination!
When you enter the chapel built by St. Louis, you will first experience the lower chapel built for the workers and servants. This area houses the gift shop and the oldest painted wall in Paris. It is impressive, no doubt. Spend some time looking around, but the main attraction is upstairs. Go up the little stairs and prepare to be awed. Pick up a free informational card at the back that will lead you through history and the 1,113 stained glass windows that tell stories from the Bible.
The upper sanctuary was for the king and his private guests to worship. The focal point was relics of Christ including Jesus’ Crown of Thorns that was purchased in 1239 for more than it cost to build the chapel. These relics are now housed in the Notre Dame Cathedral.
This experience is breath taking! Stay as long as you wish to soak in the vibrant colors and beautiful story telling through glass. It is gorgeous on any day, but try to visit on a sunny day to see the sun illuminate the panes of glass. If you really want to see details, bring some binoculars to view the windows at the top and take in all the details.
Sainte-Chapelle is located right around the corner from Notre Dame Cathedral in the Palais de la Cité; it is easily accessible. Entrance fees will be covered by the Paris Pass, Paris Museum Pass, or you can pay at the door. Check their website for hours, fees and free admission times. You can also visit the chapel by purchasing tickets to a musical performance. I could not get enough of Sainte-Chapelle, so I went during the day and then again in the evening for a stringed quartet performance.
Not to build expectations too high, but for real, it is a place you will never forget!
Beautiful. I used to go there for a long time when I lived in Paris.
Yes! You could spend so much time taking it all in!