Background

Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Paris's Oldest Sanctuary

Discover Paris's oldest church, a historic landmark in the heart of the vibrant Saint-Germain-des-Prés, showcasing Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

4.7

The Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, nestled in the heart of Paris's vibrant Saint-Germain-des-Prés quarter, is the city's oldest church, with its roots tracing back to the 6th century. Founded by King Childebert I in 558, it boasts a rich history, evolving from a Merovingian basilica to a Romanesque and Gothic architectural blend.

A brief summary to Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds and fully appreciate the church's serene atmosphere.
  • Take a guided tour (in French) on Tuesdays and Thursdays to access the Chapelle Saint-Symphorien.
  • Explore the surrounding Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, known for its historic cafes and art galleries.
  • Look for the 12th-century lintel depicting the Last Supper over the entrance door.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Paris, the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is easily accessible via the Metro. Take Metro Line 4 to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés station. The church is a short walk from the station. A single Metro ticket costs €2.50.

  • Walking

    From the Musée d'Orsay, cross the Seine River via the Pont Royal or Pont du Carrousel. Walk along the Left Bank, following the Quai Voltaire and Quai Malaquais. Turn inland towards Boulevard Saint-Germain, where the church is located. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available throughout Paris. A short taxi ride from the Louvre Museum to the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés typically costs between €7 and €10, depending on traffic.

Unlock the Best of Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, standing proudly at 3 Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is a testament to Paris's enduring history. Founded in 558 by King Childebert I, son of Clovis, it was originally built to house relics, including a fragment of the True Cross. First named Saint-Vincent-Sainte-Croix Basilica, it was later renamed in 754 in honor of Saint Germain, the Bishop of Paris. Over the centuries, the church has faced numerous challenges. Viking invasions in the 9th century led to its destruction, necessitating reconstruction around the year 1000. During the French Revolution, it was repurposed as a saltpeter refinery and cannon foundry, suffering an explosion in 1794 that left it in ruins. Despite these tumultuous times, the church has been revitalized, with significant restoration efforts in the 19th century. Today, the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés stands as a captivating blend of architectural styles. The sturdy bell tower, dating back to the 11th century, is one of the oldest Romanesque towers in France. Inside, visitors can admire the vibrant colors of the restored paintings and frescoes, as well as the thousand-year-old stained-glass windows. The church also holds cultural significance, with its surrounding neighborhood becoming a hub for intellectuals and artists in the 20th century. Located in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, the church is surrounded by iconic cafes like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, once frequented by renowned figures such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Ernest Hemingway. The nearby Square Laurent Prache offers a tranquil garden space with a bust of Dora Maar by Picasso.

Popular Experiences near Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Popular Hotels near Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Select Currency