Part of the Palais de Justice law courts complex on Ile de la Cite, the exquisite Sainte Chapelle (Holy Chapel) is one of the most inspiring visual experiences on offer in Paris. Comissioned by Louis IX during the 13th century, the chapel was designed to function as a reliquary for a fragment of the True Cross and the Jesus's Crown of Thorns, both of which the king had purchased from the Emperor of Constantinople. Gothic in style, the painstakingly decorated chapel features some of the finest stained glass of its type, as well as intricately painted stonework and a ceiling that resembles the sky at night. The upper chapel's rose windows were a later 15th century addition. After suffering heavy damage during the Revolution, Sainte Chapelle's important holy relics were transferred to the treasury of the Cathedral Notre Dame. The building was restored back to its former glory in 1855 by architect Viollet-Le-Duc.
Transport to Sainte Chapelle
