Martyrium of Saint Denis, Montmartre, Religious crypt in Montmartre, France
The Martyrium of Saint Denis is an underground chapel in Montmartre containing three ancient graves marked with crosses and religious inscriptions from early Christian times. The space preserves traces of these former burials and offers insight into past religious practices.
The site was a Roman quarry where early Christians were buried and where, according to tradition, Saint Denis met his martyrdom. Later an underground chamber was created to honor and protect this sacred location.
The chapel carries strong ties to the Jesuit order, as it witnessed the taking of solemn vows in 1534 that led to the establishment of this religious community.
Access is typically available on specific days, so you should check in advance with the managing association for opening times. The underground location means you will need to descend stairs to reach the chapel.
A staircase was discovered during 16th-century construction work leading to a chamber that contained evidence of early Christian religious practices. This chance discovery revealed a hidden chapter in Paris's religious past.
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