Paris Places of Worship & Religious Sites

Designed by famed architect Mario Botta, and completed in 1995, this modern cathedral casts a striking figure in the Paris skyline. The cylindrical structure and tree lined roof have raised more than a few eyebrows, yet the church maintains a reverent atmosphere, albeit with a sophisticated appeal.

The Cathedral de Notre Dame de Paris is not only an icon of Catholicism in France and around the world, but it is also an architectural masterpiece. Designed in the French Gothic style of architecture, the Cathedral de Notre Dame de Paris was under construction from 1163 through to 1345, and underwent extensive renovations and repairs in the 19th century. One of the greatest features of the cathedral are the flying buttresses, allowing for a cavernous, open interior, as well as the exquisite rose windows that are seen from within. The pews can hold 6,000 worshippers at any given time and approximately 12 million visitors come to see the cathedral each year. Climb the 387 steps to the top of the cathedral's tower to see its gargoyles up close and a spectacular view of the City of Paris as well. Guided Tours of Notre Dame are offered during peak times - inquire within for detailed information. A park located just south and east of Cathedral de Notre Dame de Paris, Square Jean XXIII, offers one of the best views of the cathedral in the city.

Cathédrale Saint Spire is the only religious site that remains of the ancient city of Corbeil. A grand, imposing archway, fashioned during the 14th century, heralds the entrance to this Gothic church. Splendid tapestries and murals are still on display and the church is open for public viewing.

In the thirteenth century, Louis IX ordered the construction of Sainte Chapelle to house the crown of thorns and other religious artifacts brought over from the Holy Land. A stunning display of gothic architecture, the second floor is almost entirely surrounded by stained glass windows, which are visible from the exterior. Two thirds of the windows are the originals, and this collection is one of the most complete from the era. The first floor of the chapelle is smaller and darker. It is located near Notre Dame, and surrounded by the Palais of Justice on the Ile de la Cite.

The much-talked-about Basilique Sacre-Coeur is set on atmospheric grounds, usually surrounded by guitar-strumming Parisians in the evening and students reading on its steps during the day. It was begun in the 1870s as a gift to the French public to renew their faith after the blood shed during the Franco-Prussion War, and was not consecrated until 1919, after the First World War. The top of its pointed dome offers a great view over the city, and its interior glows with mosaics.