Written by: TravelingProfessor
Tuesday, May 08, 2012 

American Cathedral in Paris
Métro: George V or Alma Marceau
Since 1886, this vibrant and lovely cathedral has served as a center of worship for English speakers in Europe. It is under the direction of the Episcopal Church. Inside, the flag of each state of the United States is flown. The cathedral maintains an active arts and social program – excellent for those looking to meet other English speakers. Located at 23, avenue George V. Website: http://www.americancathedral.org

Basilique de Saint-Denis (Cathedral Basilica of Saint-Denis)
Métro: Basilique de St-Denis     Museum Pass: Yes
It is the burial place of nearly all the kings and queens of France. This is one strange place. See the tombs of people you read about in history books – Clovis, Marie Antoinette, Louis XIV. Not for the faint-hearted. I found it fascinating. 2 hours. 30-40 minute métro ride from center of Paris.
Website: http://saint-denis.monuments-nationaux.fr/en

Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Paris (Notre Dame Cathedral)
Métro: Cité or St-Michel Notre Dame                 Museum Pass: Only for towers
This cathedral is a classic example of 12^th century Gothic architecture. It stands on Île de la Cité and is close to Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie. To climb to the top of the cathedral, get there early, before 9 a.m. There is no admission fee to get into the cathedral itself. The Museum Pass does not let you skip the line to climb the towers. Bring binoculars to view the stained glass and other objects. Visit the “Treasury” inside the cathedral. There is a small admission charge.  It displays holy relics such as crucifixes and gifts by Popes.  Île Saint-Louis is directly across the bridge from Notre Dame. Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie are also in the immediate area. This is where I always start my trip in Paris. In the center of the “Parvis” (yes, the spelling is correct) or the plaza in front of the cathedral, notice the bronze marker from which all distances in France are measured. The Crown of Thorns, worn by Jesus, is put on display at Notre Dame every Friday during Lent and on the 1^st Friday of each month. Watch out for gypsies and pick-pockets.  1-2 hours. Website: http://www.notredamedeparis.fr

Sácre-Cœur
Métro: Abbesses or Anvers      
This 19th century basilica was built by on the highest point in Paris by the French government following the Franco-Prussian War. It provides a stunning panoramic view of the city. Don’t walk, but ride the funicular up the hill to the basilica. Stroll around the lovely neighborhood behind the church if time permits. Nearby is the Place du Tertre where many portrait artists will be at work. This is one of the most popular visitor sites in Paris. Watch for pick-pockets! To enhance the experience, watch the movie “Amelie” before your visit. Website: http://www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com/us

Sainte-Chapelle
Métro: Cité                    Museum Pass: Yes                 
This is a church dating back to the 13^th century. It was built by King St. Louis to house the Crown of Thorns. It has the best collection of stained glass of the period. There are also regularly scheduled concerts here. This is another “can’t miss” place. Bring a pair of binoculars. Very close to Notre Dame. 1 hour. Website: http://sainte-chapelle.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/?fl_r=4

Église Saint-Etienne-du-Mont
Métro: Cardinal Lemoine                                  
Located behind the Panthéon, this Gothic church stands on the site of an abbey founded by Clovis. It is dedicated to St. Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris. This is a delightful place for a quick rest after visiting the Panthéon. Admire the bright open space of this inviting church before heading onto rue Mouffetard. ½ hour. Website: http://www.sacred-destinations.com/france/paris-st-etienne-du-mont.htm

Église Saint-Sulpice
Métro: Saint-Sulpice.
Saint-Sulpice is the setting for a gripping scene in the movie “The Da Vinci Code”. Fans of the book and movie are constant visitors. The former prime meridian runs through this church. Catch the renowned organ recitals at the Sunday 10:30 a.m. mass. ½ hour. Website: http://www.stsulpice.com

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