Guided tour: Basilica of Saint-Denis

Travel back in time: explore the necropolis of the kings of France and the cradle of Gothic architecture.

Discover the majestic Basilica of Saint-Denis, a place steeped in history and art. The necropolis of the kings and queens of France for over ten centuries, it is also considered the first masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Explore its impressive funerary sculptures and luminous stained-glass windows, witnesses to a rich royal and artistic history.

Tour details

Let yourself be guided through the centuries in the heart of the Basilica of Saint-Denis, a place where the leading figures of French history are laid to rest. I will reveal the secrets of its revolutionary architecture and the history of the monarchs buried there. This guided tour will allow you to:

• Admire the western façade: Discover the sculptures that once adorned the main portal, witnesses to the beginnings of Gothic art.

• Explore the archaeological crypt: Descend into the depths of the basilica to discover the remains of the first buildings and the tombs of the Merovingian and Carolingian kings.

• Contemplate the recumbent and transi statues: Marvel at the richness and diversity of the funerary monuments of the kings and queens of France, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Observe the details of the sculptures representing the monarchs in their eternal sleep (recumbent) or in the state of their bodies after death (transi).

• Marvel at the stained glass windows: Admire the light filtering through the magnificent stained glass windows, some of which date back to the 12th century, depicting biblical scenes and royal figures, and understand their role in Gothic architecture.

• Discover the axial chapel: Contemplate the elegance of this chapel, the last addition to the basilica, and its connection to the royal family.

• Understand the evolution of Gothic architecture: I will explain how the Basilica of Saint-Denis marked a break with Romanesque art and introduced the characteristic elements of the Gothic style (buttresses, ribbed vaults, elevation).

• Learn about the history of the kings and queens of France: Discover the lives, reigns, and destinies of the monarchs buried in the basilica, from Dagobert to Louis XVIII.

• Understand the role of Saint Denis: Discover the history of this patron saint of France and the spiritual link that unites the monarchy to this place.

• Enjoy a themed tour: Follow an itinerary designed to highlight the most important historical, artistic, and architectural aspects of the basilica.

• Enjoy anecdotes and in-depth analysis: I will share fascinating details about the construction of the basilica, the artists who worked there, and the historical events that took place there.

• Ask questions to learn more about the aspects that interest you most and enrich your understanding of French history and medieval art.

Key features:

Credits :
Funeral monuments in memory of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette created by Edme Gaulle and Pierre Petitot in 1830: Eric Pouhier, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons / No modifications
Interior of Basilique Saint-Denis : Cmcmcm1, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons / No modifications
Chapel of the Virgin: Photo Myrabella / Wikimedia Commons / No modifications
Stained glass window depicting the childhood of Christ: Vassil, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons / No modifications

The content and duration of the tour can be adapted on request!
→ Contact me with your specific requirements (e.g., stroller, wheelchair, walking difficulties) and any special requests you may have for the tour.

Please note: prices are indicative and may vary depending on the number of people, the type of audience, the language, the customization, and the duration of the tour.

What is included in the tour price
Use of audio guides
Booking conditions
Cancellation policy

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