Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois

Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois is a Gothic church in the 1st arrondissement standing directly across from the Louvre. The building displays a central nave constructed in the 15th century with stained glass windows from the 16th and 19th centuries, while its stone facade shelters numerous chapels inside that hold paintings and sculptures.

The church took shape in the 15th century as the area around the palace expanded and people needed a local parish building. It experienced a tragic event in 1572 that would forever mark its story.

The church served as the spiritual center for people working and living near the palace grounds over centuries. Visitors can walk through the different chapels today, seeing how religious art and sculpture shaped the space where the local community gathered.

The church sits directly across from the Louvre and is easy to reach on foot, staying open regularly for religious services. Visitors should expect that interior access may be limited during worship times, so it helps to plan your visit timing accordingly.

On the outer facade sits a medieval stone carving called the Boule aux Rats, showing a mysterious figure holding a sphere. This odd sculpture often catches the eye of passing visitors who wonder what it might represent.

Location: 1st arrondissement of Paris

Inception: 1220

Architects: Jacques Ignace Hittorff

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Made from material: Saint-Leu stone

Website: https://saintgermainlauxerrois.fr

GPS coordinates: 48.85944,2.34111

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:25