Sainte-Chapelle (pronounced sant-shah-pel’) is a monumental masterpiece that stole my heart. After three trips to Paris, I finally made it to this awe-inspiring chapel. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.
A Royal Chapel in the Heart of Paris
Nestled in the courtyard of the former royal palace on the Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle is a testament to faith and grandeur. Located in the center of Paris, it’s easily accessible on foot. I took a leisurely stroll past Notre Dame – the gargoyles never fail to mesmerize me – before arriving at the Palace of Justice complex, where this gem lies hidden.
A Story of Devotion and Treasures
The Holy Chapel, as its name suggests, was built in 1246 by King Louis IX, later known as Saint Louis, to house his precious religious relics. These included the Crown of Thorns and a piece of the True Cross, treasures he acquired from the Emperor of Constantinople for a staggering 135,000 livres. Interestingly, the chapel itself cost only 40,000 livres. This speaks volumes about the importance King Louis IX placed on these sacred objects. The relics were exhibited to the public only on Good Friday, making the chapel a center of pilgrimage during this time.
A Gothic Gem
Though dwarfed by the grand cathedrals of the time, Sainte-Chapelle boasts a beautiful Gothic architecture. The slender structure stands tall, its delicate stonework and arches creating a delicate harmony. However, its location within the inner courtyard meant the chapel was somewhat confined.
A Glimpse of Heavenly Light
After a short wait in line, I passed through security and stepped inside. I was immediately captivated by the exquisite stained glass windows, which cast an ethereal glow upon the entire chapel. The translucent reflections of color and golden hues create a breathtaking spectacle, transporting you to a realm of tranquility and wonder.
A Masterpiece of Stained Glass
The upper chapel, the king’s sanctuary, boasts an astonishing collection of stained glass windows. Over two-thirds of the windows are original, dating back to the 13th century. The remaining windows were meticulously restored over 20 years, beginning in 1840. Sadly, the chapel suffered damage during the French Revolution. Fortunately, its conversion into an administrative office saved the windows from destruction. They were briefly removed during the 19th century and again during World War II for safety. Thankfully, they were reinstalled after the war, preserving their beauty for future generations.
A Legacy of Faith
The relics that once graced Sainte-Chapelle have unfortunately disappeared or melted down. However, many believe they survived, and are now stored as the “relics of Sainte-Chapelle” at Notre Dame. Despite the mystery surrounding these relics, the chapel itself is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris.
A Paris Must-See
I highly recommend staying in a hotel in the city center to make the most of your time in Paris. This allows easy access to iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Notre Dame, and of course, Sainte-Chapelle. I chose the charming Hotel Caron de Beaumarchais, a small boutique hotel, which was conveniently located within walking distance of all these attractions.
