Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis

Magnificent!!! Lucky enough to witness the magic of sunlight passing through the Gothic stained glass windows!!! Impressive architecture!!! Touching funerary monuments of French monarchs.

Very underrated cathedral with a ton of history (first gothic cathedral, French kings, Abelard). It's free to go in - tickets are just to get into the necropolis part/where the kings of france are buried. The neighborhood is not a problem if you go during the day and use the close metro stop.

Dead kings and queens? ✅ Hearts in glass jars? ✅ Late Roman / Early medieval crypt? ✅ This Basilica has it all! Beautiful building with the most impressive collection of funerary monuments I have seen in France. There is an audio tour, but the graves and monuments, from Clovis I to Louis XIV, are also well marked with informative interpretation signs, mostly in French. This is hands down my favorite, and unquestionably the most bizarre, Parisian religious monument.

The amazing Saint-Denis Cathedral is well worth the suburban detour when visiting France’s capital city. The cathedral is an architectural icon as the first significant abbey church in gothic style. It has an important historical and religious role as the resting place of most of the French kings since the seventh century. Visiting the tombs is quite the experience. We had a duo-ticket to also visit the Panthéon on the other side of the river.

Absolutely stunning. The light coming through the colored windows make such a magical atmosphere there.
There are some entry fees for different types of tours, but the basic part of the church is free of charge.

Wow! Walking inside it's very impressive - stained glass, limestone columns and folks doing mass and real ceremonies.
But doing the tour for 9,50€ was just fabulous! Delving into the tombs of old French kings & queens was both an adventure and a very real and humanizing experience.
It wasn't too busy on my visit (mid-morning) and there was plenty of space to get great photos, clear of other people.
I'll be raving about this one for years and so will you too!!
There's a ramp at the entry for full wheeled access, an audio-trail, lots of pamphlets and other info available

The basilica is gorgeous as outside as well as inside. Visited crypt of french kings and queens in the middle of august. There was not a lot people and only one group of tourist. (Thursday) Ticket price is adequate for visit. This is really amazing place of history. So lot of detalis and stories on the tombs of departed nobles. The basilica offers two history lessons - architecture and monarchy of France.

There is a long queue for entry. Better not to bring large bags with you as security May not let you get in.

It is one of the greatest cathedrals in the Paris area. Its gorgeous stained glass and the graves of the french monarchy make you feel the history around you. This place has the capability to resize the proportion of human beings.
It definitely worth a visit and it is easy to reach from downtown with the Paris Métro Line 13.

Incredible stain glass windows! The quality, colors, and condition of these windows is amazing! This cathedral is in a bit of an out of the way neighborhood where tourists are not likely to come across it easily, but it is certainly worth the trek.
P.S. Very interesting wall-stabilization project in progress. Massive braces on the exterior of the building.

Very nice cathedral where all the kings and queens and other famous people of France have found their rest. It is nice to see the beautiful carved stones covering the coffins. A lot of royalties here. So this must be a stop for anyone visiting Paris.

It is one of the great historical place in Paris. Inside the church contains with many kings and queens of France such Louis XIV, Marie Antoinette and Catherine de Medici. And it’s stunning with stained glasses.

Must visit, one of the most underrated monuments in Paris. Ideally, must take a guided tour. Their guides are truly the best in Paris.

Beautiful Cathedral, unside are the tombs of the members of the Royal families. It was interesting to wander around and find so many historical known names. Don't miss this place.

Love history? This place is highly recommended. Just the area around the metro is a bit rough so try not to go there to early or too late

This beautiful, historical cathedral is not in a great area. Don't linger after leaving the church! Things have not gone well for this area since the monarchy was abolished! I went by myself and was told by every person I came into contact with to be cautious, and these were the locals.

An important cathedral housing most of the Kings and Queens of France (plus Franks). You need a ticket to visit most of the cathedral.

A quick ride on the metro north of Paris proper. This is where most of nobility was buried. This was a beautiful cathedral stained glass wise. It was worth the trip for the day. There was very little tourist pressure which after the larger sites of Paris was welcome. There is much history here and well worth the short trip.

"The Basilica Cathedral: A Spiritual and Architectural Marvel"

The Basilica Cathedral stands as a beacon of faith and a testament to architectural brilliance. Located in the heart of the city, this sacred edifice is a masterpiece that captivates both believers and admirers of art and history alike.

From the moment you approach the Basilica, its towering spires and intricate façade command reverence and admiration. The grandeur of its design, with its awe-inspiring arches and ornate detailing, transports visitors to a realm where faith and human achievement converge.

Stepping inside, one is enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility and devotion. The sacred echoes of hushed prayers and the soft glow of candlelight create an ambiance that invites introspection and reverence. The soaring ceilings and the play of light through stained glass windows evoke a sense of divine presence.

The Basilica's interior is a living museum of religious art and cultural heritage. Ornate altars, meticulously crafted sculptures, and vivid frescoes adorn the sacred spaces, each telling a story of devotion and faith through the ages. The attention to detail in the craftsmanship is nothing short of extraordinary.

The spiritual significance of the Basilica is palpable, making it a place of pilgrimage for believers seeking solace and connection. The reverence shown by both clergy and visitors adds to the sense of sanctity, creating a space where one can find solace and inspiration.

The Basilica Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a living testament to the enduring power of human creativity and spiritual expression. Its rich history and architectural splendor make it a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for art, history, or a desire to experience a place where the sacred and the sublime converge.

In summary, the Basilica Cathedral stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and spiritual devotion. Its architectural magnificence and spiritual significance make it a place of profound beauty and contemplation. For believers and admirers of art and history alike, the Basilica Cathedral is a true marvel that leaves a lasting impression.

The basilica stands on the site of a Gallo roman cementery with the tomb of Saint Denis, first Bishop of Paris.
In the 12th century, Suger, the abbot of Saint Denis turn this abby into a masterpiece and first example of early gothic architecture .
It became the preferred necropolis of the French monarchs, 42 kings, 32 queens and more have been buried there. Catherine de Medicis, Henry II,Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI among many others.