Église de la Madeleine – Paris’ most majestic temple church

“Quick Overview”

• Classic temple church in the 8th arrondissement

• Built 1764–1842 with 52 Corinthian columns

• Originally planned as Napoleon’s victory temple

• Interior adorned with marble and the sculpture of Mary Magdalene

• Used today for church services and classical concerts

• Known for Chopin’s memorial service

• Close to Place de la Concorde and Palais Garnier

Madeleine Church – a Construction Marked by Revolution and Emperors

Construction of the Madeleine Church began in 1764, but due to the French Revolution and changing regimes, the building was not completed until 1842. During Napoleon’s reign, the project was transformed into a temple for the “French army” and the architecture still bears the mark of this militant vision. This explains the church’s massive columns and temple-like facade that set it apart from traditional Parisian churches.

A church as a work of art – both inside and out

From the outside, the Église de la Madeleine resembles a Roman temple with its 52 Corinthian columns, each 20 meters high. Inside you are greeted by a dark, solemn space filled with gold, marble and religious artwork. The main altar is adorned by sculptor Charles Marochetti’s large sculpture Marie-Madeleine taken to heaven, one of the church’s most impressive works.

Musical center and church for celebrities

Today, the Église de la Madeleine is an active church, but also known as a concert venue, especially for classical music and organ works. Its status as a cultural hub is also reflected in the fact that several famous personalities have been buried here, including composer Frédéric Chopin, whose Requiem by Mozart was performed during his funeral in 1849.

Location and practical information

The church is located at the end of Boulevard de la Madeleine and close to major shopping streets such as Rue Royale and Boulevard Haussmann. It is easily accessible via the Madeleine metro station (lines 8, 12 and 14). Admission is free and the church is open daily.

3 nearby attractions

• Place de la Concorde – One of Paris’ largest and most historic squares overlooking the Seine and the Tuileries.

• Palais Garnier – The sumptuous Parisian Opera is just a 10-minute walk away.

• Galeries Lafayette – Paris’ most famous department store with a spectacular glass dome and viewing terrace.

By Tommy Sverre – 2025