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Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis: France's Royal Necropolis

Explore France's royal history at the Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis, a stunning Gothic masterpiece and final resting place of kings and queens.

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The Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is the final resting place of French royalty. Located in Saint-Denis, just north of Paris, it houses over 70 royal tombs and recumbent statues, offering a glimpse into French history and artistic evolution.

A brief summary to Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis

  • Monday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:15 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-5:15 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive at least one hour and 15 minutes before closing to fully appreciate the basilica's architecture and historical significance.
  • Consider visiting on the first Sunday of the month from November to March for free entry.
  • Note that the Basilica is closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
  • Be aware that the Basilica may be closed for religious services; check the schedule in advance.
  • Suitcases and large backpacks are not allowed for security reasons; maximum bag size is 40 x 40 x 20 cm.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Metro Line 13 to the Basilique de Saint-Denis station. From the station, the basilica is a short 100m walk. The metro fare is approximately €2.10 for a single ticket.

  • Car

    If driving from central Paris, take the A1 highway towards Saint-Denis. Exit at Saint-Denis Centre and follow signs to Basilique. Parking is available at the Indigo Parking Basilique, located 100 meters from the monument at 4 Place du Caquet. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €2.50-€4.70 per hour. Be aware that the city center of Saint-Denis is primarily pedestrianized.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Paris and can take you directly to the Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis. A taxi from central Paris will cost approximately €25-€40, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. Ensure the driver is aware of the basilica's location at 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 93200 Saint-Denis.

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Discover more about Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis

The Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis is more than just a church; it's a journey through French history and a stunning example of Gothic architectural innovation. Built on the site of a Gallo-Roman cemetery where Saint Denis, the patron saint of France, was buried around 250 AD, the site evolved from a small church to a powerful abbey. In the 12th century, Abbot Suger, advisor to King Louis VI and Louis VII, initiated the construction of a new church, incorporating ribbed vaults and an abundance of light, which is considered the first true expression of Gothic architecture. From the 7th century, the basilica became the official burial place for French kings and queens, housing the tombs of 43 kings, 32 queens, and numerous other members of the royal family. The collection of over 70 recumbent statues and tombs represents the most important ensemble of funerary sculptures in France, dating from the 12th to the 16th centuries. Visitors can explore the crypt, which contains the graves of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, as well as an ossuary with bones dating back to the Early Middle Ages. Today, the Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis stands as a testament to French heritage, art, and royal history. Visitors can admire the stunning stained-glass windows, explore the royal necropolis, and learn about the evolution of Gothic architecture. The basilica is an active place of worship, serving as a cathedral since 1966 and the seat of the Bishop of Saint-Denis.

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