Église Saint-Pierre de Montmartre
4.7
(958)This historic Catholic church, dating back to the 12th century, is one of the oldest in Paris and the second oldest surviving church in the city. It was originally part of the prestigious Montmartre Abbey, which was destroyed during the French Revolution. The church served both the Benedictine nuns of the abbey and local parishioners.
Address
2 Rue du Mont-Cenis, 75018 Paris, France
Opening Hours
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Thu)
Phone
+33 1 46 06 57 63
Worth it?
Worth it if you want to step back in time and experience a church with centuries of stories
Skip if you're only looking for grand, ornate displays
Location
2 Rue du Mont-Cenis, 75018 Paris, France
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Highlights
The entrance features three modern cast bronze doorways from 1980, illustrating scenes from the lives of the Virgin Mary, Saint Peter, and Saint Denis of Paris.
The interior's Romanesque plan includes a 12th-century nave with cruciform pillars and capitals featuring Romanesque and early Gothic motifs.
The choir and apse contain the oldest and most picturesque architecture, including a vaulted ceiling from 1147 and an apse rebuilt in the late 12th century.
Look for the two ancient columns from the 2nd or 3rd centuries AD, with Merovingian carved marble capitals, supporting the double arch between the choir and apse.
The modern stained glass windows, designed by Max Ingrand in 1954, are particularly striking and beautiful.
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Who it's for
Anyone interested in deep history and architecture, especially those who appreciate a quieter, more modest experience compared to larger, more famous landmarks. It's also good for families.
Know before you go
The church is closed on Mondays.
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Reviews
4.7
Exceptional
5 ReviewsVisitors consistently praise the church for its ancient feel and well-preserved interior, often noting its quiet charm in contrast to the nearby Sacré-Cœur. Many highlight the unique stained glass windows and the sense of history.
Fun facts
According to tradition, the church was founded by Saint Denis in the third century, and Merovingian sarcophagi indicate a church on this site since the 6th century.
Ignatius of Loyola and his followers chose this site in 1534 for the foundation of the Society of Jesus, or Jesuit order.
During the French Revolution, the abbey and crypts were destroyed, and the chapel was briefly transformed into a "Temple of Reason."
