Stunning Chapel in Paris Now Restored As Saint Louis Would Have Seen It

After eight years of restoration, the Sainte-Chapelle (translated as “Holy Chapel” in English) is finally free of scaffolding.

Nestled in the Conciergerie, the Paris Courthouse located on the island of the City, the chapel one could easily miss this architectural gem, the height of which rivals most slender cathedrals.

Sainte-Chapelle features over 750 m² of stained glass dating from the thirteenth century, grouping 1,113 scenes from the Old Testament. The restoration of the windows costs more than 9 million euros, and the result is spectacular.

The royal medieval chapel is considered a masterpiece of High Gothic architecture. Built between 1242 and 1248 it was commissioned by King Louis IX of France to house relics of Christ’s Passion, including the wood of the True Cross and the nails of the Passion and the Crown of Thorns.

Just as it did in the time of Saint Louis, this sacred structure will dazzle any visitor in its restored magnificence.

Translated by Zoe Romanowsky.