3 must visit churches in Paris

By Dennis Lennox, CP Contributor Sunday, January 27, 2019

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is likely the first, and perhaps only, church that comes to mind when you think of an old Parisian church.

That’s understandable given the medieval Gothic cathedral is a defining icon in the cityscape of Paris. Yet, the French capital has other églises, or churches, that are just as old and beautiful as Notre-Dame, notwithstanding the lack of a Quasimodo connection.

And the best part? The following three churches are largely overlooked, meaning tourists are few and far between.

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3. Église Saint-Étienne-du-Mont

Located in the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank and behind the Panthéon, the Church of St. Stephen of the Mont is best known for its magnificent Renaissance rood screen.

The screen, arguably the finest example of its era, spans the entire width of the nave between the north and south walls and includes a loft. In medieval days it would have been common for choristers to sing or priests read the gospel from aloft.

Visiting hours vary, depending on the day and the time of the year.

2. Église Saint-Séverin

The Church of St. Severin is about 10 minutes by foot from Saint-Étienne-du-Mont.

Dating to the late 15th century, when an earlier 13th century church — itself a replacement for an even earlier 11th century church — was damaged in the Hundred Years’ War, it is an example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture.

As with most churches it was altered in the ensuing centuries, though the east end with its ambulatory and numerous side chapels is mostly original to the 1440s. A sharp eye will also note the twisted column behind the altar in the center of the apse.

Another treasure at Saint-Séverin are the bells from 1412, the oldest in Paris.

The church is open daily from late morning through the evening.

1. Église Saint-Merri

The Church of St. Merri is both ancient and unusual, the latter because of its dedication to St. Mederic, a little-known saint.

The present-day church is mostly 16th century, though a series of additions and redecorations in the 18th century were done in the then-fashionable style of baroque. This includes the striking quire, which despite its appearance is actually faux marble. Exterior restorations, including of the west front, were also carried out in the 19th century.

Parts of the interior are used for art displays and other secular uses — a reflection that many churches in France no longer have congregants to fill the pews. Throughout the church there are visible signs that a restoration is needed, as much of the fabric is in rough condition. When I last visited scaffolding was erected on the inside and outside of the south wall.

Saint-Merri is open daily, year-round from early afternoon through early evening.

Spires and Crosses, a travel column exclusive to The Christian Post, is published every week. Follow @dennislennox on Twitter and Instagram.