Sainte-Chapelle - September 2022

One of my favorite things in Paris besides the Catacombs was Sainte-Chapelle on Ile de la Cite. It was commissioned by King Louis IX in 1242 to house some of his holy relics, like the Crown of Thorns. We didn't see the Crown, as it now resides in Notre Dame which is incredibly close by - it luckily survived the fire.

The upper chapel at Sainte-Chapelle is the most striking, with 360-degree stained glass windows, including a beautiful rose window similar to what is seen in Notre Dame itself. The cathedral is gothic in style, particularly Rayonnant, which is very vertical and long, making it look weightless. I read up on it before we went, and it's not exceptionally surprising that it was a target in the French Revolution; however, about 2/3 of the stained glass is original.

Enough nerding out about architecture of chapels and cathedrals (which is something I truly enjoy). Here are a few photos.

While it made for a gorgeous backdrop, I would not say that the weather was "nice" when we visited. Standing in line was a bit wet. However, these long gothic columns are examples of the Rayonnant style.

The "rose" West window is described in several architecture reviews as "flamboyant." I can't tell why.

I really liked how the candelabra was perfectly backdropped by the column supports from this angle.

Various apostles are interspersed on each of the long walls of the chapel.

An apostle front view

You couldn't swing a dead cat without hitting a castle or fleur de lis on the walls or tile. Louis wanted to subtly remind you he was king.

I have zero snark to contribute when I look at this photo of the ceiling. It's just breathtaking, an incredible experience.

One of the many bridges you can cross to get to Ile de la Cite.