The history
It is quite extraordinary to be sitting in this building known as the "Holy Chapel" on the Ile de la Cité where the medieval Kings of France once lived. It’s a short walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral which was begun before the creation of Sainte-Chappelle but completed afterwards.
It’s said that Sainte-Chappelle took just seven years to build and was consecrated on April 26th, 1248. Its purpose was to house relics which King Louis IX (1214- 1270), also known as Saint Louis, had bought. They were said to include fragments of the Crown of Thorns (now at Notre-Dame) and of the Holy Cross.
Sainte-Chappelle is bijoux and quite stunningly beautiful. There are 15 windows, each 15 metres high, the stained glass panes depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments recounting the history of the world until the arrival of the relics in Paris. An astonishing work of art that must have been one of the wonders of its time – it still is.
Music at Sainte-Chappelle
You can visit Sainte-Chappelle during the day and, when the sun shines through those awesome windows, it’s like standing in a diamond encrusted jewel box.
But, for a really magical experience, there are almost nightly classical music concerts held in this ancient place. As you sit here, in one of the most beautiful, historic buildings of Paris it is incredible to know that Kings and Queens have sat here before you. Listening to great classical music played by the passionate musicians is quite simply an encounter to cherish. The accoustics are magnificent, sending shivers up your spine, an incredible, inspiring and precious experience. There are two concerts each night, and, I highly recommend dinner afterwards at the Deux Palais brasserie across the road to completely round out your experience.
Tickets are available for the concerts from less than 30 Euros. You can also book dinner at the same time via: classictic.com