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Basilique Cathedrale de Saint-denis (france)

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About Basilique Cathedrale de Saint-denis (france)

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Royal Necropolis and Cradle of Gothic Art Located on the outskirts of Paris, the Basilica of Saint-Denis is one of the most historically significant monuments in France. Built on the tomb of Saint Denis, the first bishop of Paris, martyred around 250 AD, it became the necropolis of the kings of France as early as the Middle Ages. Almost all the sovereigns, from Dagobert I to Louis XVIII, are buried there. But beyond its funerary function, it is world-renowned as the first masterpiece of Gothic art: it was here, in the 12th century, that Abbot Suger revolutionized architecture by using the pointed arch and the ribbed vault to flood the church with light, the "lux continua." The visit is divided into two parts: the majestic nave, bathed in the light of medieval and modern stained-glass windows, and the royal necropolis (admission fee required). This site is a veritable open-air sculpture gallery, housing over 70 recumbent effigies and monumental tombs. From medieval stone figures to the spectacular Renaissance mausoleums of Francis I and Catherine de Medici, the site offers a unique chronological journey through French art and monarchical power.

Tip for an even more exceptional visit.

For the best experience, I recommend arriving on a sunny day. The light streaming through the immense rose windows of the transept casts vibrant colors onto the pale stone, perfectly illustrating Abbot Suger's theology of light. Don't miss the descent into the archaeological crypt: it's the oldest part of the building, where you can physically feel the weight of centuries and where the tombs of the last Bourbon kings, including Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, are located. Expert tip: Take advantage of the audio guides or themed tours, because without explanations, the heraldic details and symbols on the effigies (such as the lion at the kings' feet for strength, or the dog for fidelity) can easily go unnoticed. If you have some time after your visit, take a stroll to the Maison d'Éducation de la Légion d'Honneur (Legion of Honor School), located next door, whose buildings occupy the former abbey. Finally, for music lovers, the basilica hosts the famous Saint-Denis Festival every year in June, offering classical music concerts in divine acoustics.

1 Key Dates

  • church
    11/6/1144

    Consecration of the Basilica of Saint-Denis by Abbot Suger: Official birth of Gothic architecture which would spread throughout Europe

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Ricky92

2024-03-23
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"Breathtaking architecture. Royal Necropolis and Cradle of Gothic Art Located on the outskirts of Paris, the Basilica of Saint-Denis is one of the most histor... Tip: For the best experience, I recommend arriving on a sunny day. The light streaming through the immense rose windows of the transept casts vibrant colors onto the pale stone, perfectly illustrating Abbot Suger's theology of light. Don't miss the descent into the archaeological crypt: it's the oldest part of the building, where you ca"

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Basilique Cathedrale de Saint-denis (france)

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