Église Saint-Sulpice

Description:

Église Saint-Sulpice is one of the largest and most significant churches in Paris, located in the 6th Arrondissement. Construction began in 1646 and continued into the 18th century, resulting in a grand Baroque and Neoclassical architectural masterpiece. The church is dedicated to Sulpitius the Pious and is known for its stunning interior, historical significance, and artistic treasures.

History:

The original church on this site was built in the 13th century but was replaced by the current structure starting in 1646. The construction took over a century, with contributions from several architects, including Christophe Gamard, Daniel Gittard, and Giovanni Servandoni.

The church was consecrated in 1745, although its famous twin towers were not completed until later. The south tower remains unfinished to this day.

During the French Revolution, the church was heavily damaged and used as a Temple of Victory. It was restored in the 19th century.

Link to The Da Vinci Code:

Église Saint-Sulpice gained additional fame due to its mention in Dan Brown's novel “The Da Vinci Code”. The novel references the church's gnomon (an astronomical instrument) and suggests it is part of a larger mystery involving hidden secrets and religious conspiracies. While the novel's claims are fictional, the church has since become a popular tourist destination for fans of the book.

Details to Look For:

The Facade: The church’s impressive facade features two distinct towers and a grand entrance. The south tower, though incomplete, adds a unique aspect to the structure.

Interior:

The Nave: A vast, open space with high ceilings, beautiful columns, and intricate decorations.

The Gnomon: An astronomical device used to determine the exact time of the equinoxes and other significant dates. The gnomon consists of an obelisk and a meridian line on the floor of the church. It was installed in the 18th century by the astronomer Henri de Sully.

Delacroix Frescoes: Look for the stunning frescoes by the famous artist Eugène Delacroix, located in the Chapel of the Holy Angels. Notable works include “Jacob Wrestling with the Angel” and “Heliodorus Driven from the Temple”.

The Great Organ: One of the most famous organs in the world, built by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll in the 19th century. The organ boasts 6,588 pipes and is renowned for its rich and powerful sound.

Stained Glass Windows: Beautiful stained glass windows depicting various biblical scenes and saints.

Fonts: The twin holy water fonts designed by the sculptor Jean-Baptiste Pigalle.

Outside the Church:

The Fountain of the Four Bishops: Located in the Place Saint-Sulpice, this fountain was built in the 19th century and features statues of four bishops who were great preachers in their time.

Visiting Tips:

Opening Hours: Église Saint-Sulpice is generally open to visitors every day from early morning until evening. Services may affect visiting hours, so it’s good to check ahead if you plan to visit specific parts of the church.

Admission: Entry to the church is free, but donations are appreciated.

Guided Tours: Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the church’s history, architecture, and artworks. Some tours are available in multiple languages.

Quiet Reflection: As with any church, be respectful of those who are there to pray or attend services. Keep noise to a minimum and dress modestly.

Visiting Église Saint-Sulpice offers a deep dive into the rich history, art, and spirituality of Paris. Whether you’re interested in its historical significance, its artistic treasures, or its connection to popular culture, the church is a must-see landmark.