Sainte-Chapelle – A Gothic gem in the heart of Paris

Sainte-Chapelle – A Gothic masterpiece

Known for its stunning stained glass windows and intimate atmosphere, Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic masterpiece, a hidden gem that impresses visitors from all over the world.

The story behind Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle was built in 1248 by Louis IX later known as Saint Louis, to house Christian relics, including the famous Crown of Thorns. The chapel was part of the royal palace and was considered a symbol of the king’s piety and power. Although the relics are now kept in Notre-Dame, the Sainte-Chapelle stands as a monument to medieval religious art and architecture.

The unique glass mosaics

The chapel is especially famous for its 15 enormous stained glass windows covering over 600 square meters. These windows depict more than 1,100 biblical scenes ranging from creation to the resurrection of Christ. When sunlight streams through the stained glass windows, a kaleidoscopic effect is created, filling the room with colorful reflections and creating an almost heavenly atmosphere.

Practical information

• Opening hours: Sainte-Chapelle is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00 in summer and until 17:00 in winter.
• Tickets: Admission costs approximately €11.50 and children under 18 get in free. Book tickets online to avoid queues.
• Transportation: Take metro line 4 to Cité station or line 1 to Châtelet station.

3 nearby attractions at Sainte-Chapelle

1. Notre-Dame de Paris: The world-famous cathedral is just a few minutes’ walk away and impresses with its Gothic architecture and beautiful rose windows.
2. Conciergerie: A historic building on Île de la Cité that formerly served as a prison and is known for its role during the French Revolution.
3. Pont Neuf: Paris’ oldest bridge connecting the Île de la Cité to the mainland, offering beautiful views of the Seine and the city skyline.

An unforgettable experience

To get the most out of your visit, it is recommended to join a guided tour or use an audio guide to understand the detailed scenes on the stained glass windows. Sainte-Chapelle also hosts classical concerts where the music combined with the chapel’s acoustics and surroundings create a magical experience.

Sainte-Chapelle is not just a church, but a testament to Paris’ rich history and artistic heritage. A visit here is a journey back to medieval splendor and an experience that will be remembered long after.

By Tommy Sverre – 2025