Sainte-Chapelle

A gem of Gothic architecture, Sainte Chapelle is known as one of the most important centres of Christianity in the world. Built over just seven years - an impressive feat - considering the breathtaking architecture - the Sainte Chapelle was intended to house precious Christian relics, including the incredible Christ's Crown of Thorns, acquired by Saint Louis. As a royal sanctuary of sacred relics, this made the already powerful French monarch of the time the ‘head of Western Christianity’. The stunning stained glass is arranged across 15 windows, each 15 meters high, the stained glass panes depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments recounting the history of the Christian world. Built during the second half of the 13th century by Louis IX, Saint Chapelle is a place of extraordinary religious symbolism. The roof appears to be supported by stained glass, so that this magical space feels like the inside of a jewel. Sainte Chapelle remains an unmistakable wonder of France and the medieval world.