Basilica of Saint-Denis
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Basilica of Saint Denis - by Gaspard De La Motte on Google
Description
The Basilica of Saint-Denis is located in the city of Saint Denis, a northern suburb of Paris. It was built in the 12th century in Gothic style on the site of a Carolingian church itself erected were a shrine-mausoleum for Saint Denis, the first bishop of Paris, was created in 313AD. It is mainly known for its necropolis which contains the tombs of almost all Kings of France; all but four were buried there (Charlemagne, Louis XI, Charles X and Louis Philippe I) - so that is 36 in Saint Denis as well as other royalty and nobility. It also served as the crowning place for Queens of France. For details about the architecture and various ornamentation the Wikipedia entry is very extensive and we would suggest referring to it: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_Saint-Denis Trivia: the sword and royal sceptre used during the crowning ceremonies were kept there
Access & Transport
Address: 1, rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 93200 Saint-Denis The metro station Basilique de Saint-Denis (#13) is 150m away and the Saint-Denis station or RER D is 10-15mins away (1.0km).
Instructions & Recommendations
Audioguides are available for 3,00 €
Environmental & Social
The running environmental footprint is low. Socially, it helps preserve the country's cultural, architectural and historical heritages
Conclusion
The Basilica of Saint-Denis is a real gem for those curious to learn more about French history, gothic art and architecture. We would recommend a visit to this monument to anybody with a curious mind but not to those with zero background about French history between the 6th and 18th centuries.
Key positive
So much to see and learn inside
Easily accessible by public transport from downtown Paris
Key negative
None
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but expect younger children not to be interested in spending time inside. The basilica is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 40m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 18:15
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:15
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:15
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:15
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:15
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:15
SUNDAY12:00 - 18:15
Start of Season 2:Oct, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 17:15
TUESDAY10:00 - 17:15
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 17:15
THURSDAY10:00 - 17:15
FRIDAY10:00 - 17:15
SATURDAY10:00 - 17:15
SUNDAY12:00 - 17:15