Paris, France

Paris
The famed flying buttresses of Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris. Photo © Sacred Destinations.

Paris is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world for good reason. Beautiful architecture, historical sites, top-notch museums, fabulous food, romantic strolls by the river... Paris has it all, including plenty for travelers interested in religious art and history. The capital city has played a key role in Roman, Christian and Jewish history and this heritage lives on in the cathedrals, monuments and artifacts these more devout times left behind. In addition, as a thriving urban center, Paris hosts a variety of newly-arrived religious communities including Muslims, Buddhists, Jehovah's Witnesses and Pentecostals. Follow a link below to explore the spiritual heritage of Paris.


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St-Germain-Des-Prés
Built to house a relic of the True Cross brought from Spain in 542, this church was so powerful in the Middle Ages that it became a town within a town.
Notre Dame Cathedral
One of the most famous cathedrals in the world, this Gothic beauty is a must-see for its historical importance and magnificent artworks.
Sainte-Chapelle
Famed for its stained glass, this beautiful 13th-century Gothic chapel was built by King Louis IX as a royal chapel to house important relics of Christ.
St-Clotilde
The most fashionable church in 19th-century Paris, this basilica dedicated to a saintly French queen is best known for its imposing twin spires.
Panthéon
This church was originally part of an abbey dedicated to St. Genevieve, but since the 18th century it has served primarily as a burial place for French heroes.
St-Pierre-De-Montmartre
One of the oldest churches in Paris, St-Pierre-de-Montmartre was consecrated in 1147. Inside the Romanesque church are 7th-century capitals and an early ribbed vault.
La Madeleine
Dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene, this church was originally designed as a temple to the glory of Napoleon's army.
St-Etienne-Du-Mont
This church stands on the site of an abbey founded by Clovis and dedicated to Geneviève, the patroness of Paris. It still receives pilgrims today.