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Paris has around 160 churches and chapels and is home to many famous churches and cathedrals. Churches and cathedrals are not just places of worship; they represent the city’s historical, cultural, and artistic evolution. Here are the 12 most beautiful churches and cathedrals in Paris you can’t miss.
Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre Dame de Paris is the most famous Gothic cathedral in the world, standing as a symbol of French heritage. Construction on the cathedral began in 1163 and was largely completed by 1345. The cathedral has the iconic flying buttresses and the magnificent rose windows, which measure over 13 meters in diameter. The cathedral once hosted important historical events like the coronation of Napoleon in 1804 and the beatification of Joan of Arc in 1909 by Pope Pius X.
Sainte-Chapelle
The Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, France, has 15 enormous stained glass windows nearly 50 feet tall. These windows are considered some of the finest in the world and are a famous feature of the Gothic-style chapel. The windows depict over 1,113 biblical scenes. It was built between 1241 and 1248 and consecrated on April 26, 1248, under the reign of King Louis IX; the chapel was intended to house relics of Christ, including the Crown of Thorns.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Construction of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Paris, France, began in 1875 and was completed in 1914; it was officially consecrated in 1919. The basilica is an example of Romanesque-Byzantine architecture, a departure from the Gothic tradition of Paris. The basilica’s brilliant white façade is due to the travertine stone that exudes calcite, keeping the church gleaming white even after years of exposure. The dome, standing at 83 meters, is one of the highest points in the city.
Saint-Sulpice
Saint-Sulpice, the second largest church in Paris after Notre Dame, is known for its grand proportions and eclectic artistic details. Construction began in 1646, and the church wasn’t completed until 1780. The church is renowned for its twin towers, one of which remains unfinished, giving it an asymmetrical appearance. Inside, visitors can marvel at murals by the artist Eugène Delacroix, including his famous “Jacob Wrestling with the Angel.”
Église de la Madeleine
Église de la Madeleine stands out with its Neoclassical design, which is reminiscent of a Roman temple more than a traditional church. Built between 1764 and 1842 under Napoleon’s orders, it was initially intended to honor the glory of his army. The church’s 52 Corinthian columns are 20 meters high and surround the entire structure, strikingly appearing in the heart of Paris. The interior is just as grand, with impressive sculptures and mosaics that reflect its imperial origins.
Saint-Eustache Church
The Church of Saint-Eustache in Paris, France, was built between 1532 and 1637 at the request of King François I. The church is a Gothic masterpiece incorporating Renaissance and Romanesque artistic elements. Its size—33 meters tall with a nave spanning 105 meters—rivals that of Notre Dame. Saint-Eustache is also home to one of the largest organs in France, with 8,000 pipes. Historical figures such as Cardinal Richelieu and Madame de Pompadour were baptized here.
Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the oldest church in Paris, dating back to the 6th century. Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés stands as a monument to the city’s early Christian history. Originally part of a Benedictine abbey, it became a burial site for Merovingian kings. The church’s Romanesque architecture is complemented by colorful 19th-century murals that decorate its interior. It has witnessed centuries of transformation, surviving the French Revolution when many churches were repurposed or destroyed.
Saint-Étienne-du-Mont
The Church of Saint-Étienne-du-Mont in Paris, France, was built between 1492 and 1655. However, the church’s history dates back to the 6th century, when the first chapel was constructed from the crypt of St. Geneviève Abbey.
The church is most famous for its ornate rood screen, the last surviving one in Paris. It is also the resting place of St. Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris, whose shrine can be found inside. Data from TripAdvisor shows that the church is also the final resting place for famous French figures such as Blaise Pascal and Jean Racine.
La Trinité Church
La Trinité Church was built between 1861 and 1867. According to Napoleon.org, La Trinité Church was designed by Théodore Ballu, who also reconstructed the Hôtel de Ville (Paris City Hall). It stands out with its elaborate façade, which includes numerous statues and reliefs. Its bell tower rises to 65 meters, dominating the surrounding area. The church’s interior is equally impressive, with detailed stained glass and a grand organ hosting famous musicians, including the composer Hector Berlioz, who lived nearby and whose funeral was held here.
Église Saint-Augustin
The Église Saint-Augustin was built between 1860 and 1871. Napoleon.org records that the church was designed by Victor Baltard, who also worked on the Halles de Paris. It has an architectural marvel that combines Romanesque, Byzantine, and Gothic styles. The church is notable for its innovative use of an iron framework, a precursor to the steel structures used in modern buildings. The dome, which reaches a height of 80 meters, is a focal point of the Parisian skyline.
Église Saint-Roch
Ville de Quebec reports that construction of this church began in 1914 and was completed in 1919. It is the fourth church to be built on the site since 1811. It houses numerous chapels adorned with artwork, including pieces by the celebrated painter Jean-Baptiste Pierre. It has been the site of many notable funerals, including Denis Diderot, the Enlightenment philosopher.
Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Church
Named after the patron saint of charity, Saint Vincent-de-Paul Church was completed in 1824. The church has become a symbol of social outreach and charitable work, reflecting the mission of its namesake. Its serene setting and ornate interior make it a peaceful stop in Paris.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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