Tuesday, April 20, 2010

A must visit church


I'm always amazed to see that even after decades in Paris, there are still churches that I don't know. This one, for instance - which is actually a basilica - I discovered for the first time last evening while I was wandering in the 7th arrondissement. It's called Sainte Clotilde, it's located on a little, charming square, and it's absolutely stunning. I could not see the inside though, because it was too late, but I'll be back. You have to see it if you come to Paris!

25 comments:

  1. Beautiful! I hope to be in Paris next week to see it in person. (All depends on if my flight will be canceled this weekend or not!)

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  2. Ah, yes, Eric -- I, too, stumbled across St. Clothilde and I, too, loved it. Unfortunately, it looks so great because its not really very old, just meant to look as though it had come through the centuries untouched.

    But, that's ok with me, because, well... it looks like its come through the centuries untouched!

    It has a lovely little garden park as well. And, it has an odd little building that looks like a tool house but is in the form of a Morris Column! i'd love to know the history of that!

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  3. Beautiful. How the heck did you miss it all these years? lol

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  4. Eeeek! I just saw yesterday's photo and comments. Ahhhh-hhaa-haaa-hhaaa!!

    Jeff - MDR. Guille - I love the French version. Poor ol' plumbers. They face this on two continents!!??

    I prefer to think its intentional -- before they can go out to work, they each must solemnly take The Secret Plumber's Oath of Service to Mankind -- to perpetuate so long as they live this one thing that will bring a moment's laughter to absolutely anyone, anywhere, anytime, in any language!!

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  5. Lovely! But is there anything in Paris that is not worth seeing? Well, I can think of a couple of places I didn't want to venture. But for the most part, Paris is quite the jewel! Your photos capture the spirit of the elegant city!

    Nevine

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  6. Beautiful perspective. I don't know this church either, but, hey—live and learn! Thanks for discovering and sharing, Eric!

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  7. Regardless of age this is a beautiful church. I hope you go back so I would love to see the inside. I followed your link to the church website and see that it has a wonderful organ and a schedule of musical services. If I live long enough to visit Paris again I will surely visit here.

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  8. 23 Rue Las Cases!
    Well, I put it on my list for June!

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  9. I confirm this is a "must visit" church!
    I have excellent memories of 2 organ concerts in Sainte Clotilde a few years ago which were great!

    And I have another personal reason to appreciate this church: my wife's first name is Clotilde ;-)

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  10. Hello Eric,
    Nice photo. You're looking upwards to the heavens no doubt and so was Caesar Franck who played the organ there for about thirty one years I believe. I've been there at organ recitals and it is wonderful. Best wishes, Therese

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  11. @Eric : Loool!
    Of course, she is! She stands me since 25 years ;-))

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  12. It's magnificent!
    Looks like you will have to visit again, especially during an organ concert. That would be wonderful!

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  13. Beautiful! I would definitely go with the organ concert idea, if I were you! :)

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  14. Beautiful shot of the architecture. With religion under fire, many cities have had to close their churches because of terrorism, or lack of interest in religion thereby non-attendance. So consequently the churches are falling into disrepair. I think it is sad because churches are an art form (to me). In Montreal I was shocked to see so many churches abandoned and falling into decay. I suggested that artists convert them into loft live/work space. With their high ceilings they would be beyond inspirational for an artist, sculpture or painter. After trying to promote this concept several times to men and women in finance and in the church, and being repeatedly brushed-off; I gave up. They would say to me, "why do you care?" I thought it was obvious. :-s

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  15. Oh yes, a beautiful..special church and a lovely shot. I remember visiting there once as a favor to a friend in Boston that held special affection for this church and was going through a difficult time.

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  16. Eric, have you already realized, that there are more than 130 Catholic Churches in Paris? Including churches, basilicas, chapels. WOW!!
    Not surprising you still find out some new ones! I must admit, I know very few of the 130... You always make me fancy doing these things or visits you talk about or recommend. But time misses me so much. Poor little me. I know it can sound really pathetic. Well, it is... :(
    Thib: "Of course, she is! She stands me since 25 years ;-))" LOL What you said just proves how gentleman you are ;-) You cracked me up as I always love hearing from happy love stories :)

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  17. Very Gothic, especially for the 19th century. Love it.

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  18. This is one of my favorite churches in Paris. I discovered it a few years ago while looking at an apartment on rue Las Cases. I always return to visit it as well as rest and reflect in the square in front of the basilica.

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  19. I'll put it on my list for my next visit ~ merci. I do love a good cathedral :-)

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  20. There's a famous statue (at least famou to pipe organ lovers) in the little square of Cesar Franck at the console of the Sainte Clotilde organ -- with an angel looking over his shoulder. The church has been the home of a series of exceptional organist composers, including Charles Tournemire & Jean Langlais (John the Englishman ;-)

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  21. Bonjour! This is yet another beautiful architecture from the most beautiful country in the world. It amazes me how your country was able to preserve such a beauty. A must see indeed! Your blog and photos are amazing!

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  22. Among all churches in paris, the Notre-Dame dominates the island.There are many churches in paris which still remained unexplored by visitors.All the church is an example of a Gothic structure and this church underwent several changes during French revolution.But still they are intact and amazing.If you need some guidance on churches do visit this.

    churches in paris

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  23. Notre dame is spectacular, particulalry its stained glass Rose windows. Nice post

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