Sainte-Chapelle: Clothed in Light

Minimum time to allow:   It takes at least an hour or more to see the interior in a relaxed manner. There are two levels and the stained glass is worth examining closely. Study ‘The Crucifixion’ in the upper chapel. The windows are pictorial Bible scenes. The rose window is best seen at sunset. It dates from 1485 and contains 85 panels. Look for the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of Christ’s Cross. The church was to house these and other relics when the chapel was first built. See the wooden apostle Statues that adorn the twelve pillars of the upper chapel. Tours take an hour but you’ll want to stay. Reserve ahead at: 01 53 73 78 52 On the outside, look for the Crown of Thorns that decorate the front pinnacles. The 1853 spire itself rises 75 m or 245 feet. The previous spires burned down. The lower level was for servants and commoners. The Royal family worshiped above. Look behind the wall to the left of the entrance of the Palais de Justice, the old royal palace (The Cour du Mai). Interior:   In the upper chapel you can see the windows when standing with the Western Rose Window of The Apocalypse at your back. Look left. The first window depicts Genesis, No 2 is Exodus, and 3 is Numbers. No 15, Story of the Relics and No 16, back to the Rose Window. You will be amazed by the shock of color created by the windows that soar 15 meters or 50 feet to the star-studded roof. Exterior:   The Main Portal (entrance) is a two tiered structure worth studying.  On the back part of the roof is a statue of The Angel that once revolved and could be seen from anywhere in Paris. But Paris was a tiny village then. There is also a gift shop and book store worth visiting. Statuary :   Apostles on 12 pillars in wood in the upper chapel. Each window is divided into arches. Caution:   There are often long lines and huge crowds visiting. Better in off peak times when it’s less crowded… Our Opinion:   See it at sunset when the color is brightest. Do not visit Paris without seeing the interior of this gem. Don’t be put off by finding the Saint Chapelle behind a wall or other buildings. This jewel of gothic architecture is truly an experience. Photography is allowed.   Ile de la Cité  is where Paris began. The boat shaped island was home to the first inhabitants here over 2,000 years ago. There is no older place in the city, and it is recommended that you see as much of every building as you can. There is something magical about each, but you’ll come home with vivid memories of the Sainte-Chapelle above all.   Address: 4, Blvd. du Palais     Paris 75001     Hours:   Apr. – Sept. 9:30 am – 6:30 pm Oct. – Mar. 10 am – 5 pm daily Closed Jan 1, May 1, Nov 1 and Dec 25.   Cost:   There is an admission charge that changes from time to time. Approx 5.50 euros Groups and Seniors reduction Special teaching activities available Tel: 01 43 54 30 09 Getting there:   The entrance is on Blvd. du Palais on the left side closest to the Quai des Orfevres where you’ll find the Police headquarters. From the Left Bank cross Pont St Michel. Metro:   Cité Turn right. You’ll see the gate entrance of the Palais de Justice. Busses:   21 38, 85, 96 to Ile de la Cité     Parking :   Rue de Harley Handicapped :   Restricted services Toilets:   Lower lever. Well marked.