The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés was a free and quick excursion in the Latin Quarter of Paris to breathe history and be mesmerized by a stunning array of architectural and artistic styles.
In 558, French King Childebert I founded the abbey in a simple meadow (prés) near the Seine (on the outskirts of medieval Paris) to protect a relic believed to be a wooden shard from the cross of Jesus Christ (known as the True Cross) and a sacred Tunic of Saint-Vincent. The relics have long since been lost and the church has gone through several upheavals and renovations; however, the Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés remains the oldest church in Paris.
On the day Childerbert died (December 23, 558), the site was dedicated as Saint-Vincent-Sainte-Croix Basilica by bishop Germanus. In 754, the abbey was renamed to "Saint-Germain" as a tribute to the original bishop who is buried on site. Later, "des Prés" was added to distinguish the abbey from Saint-Germain-le-Vieux on the Ile de la Cité.
Invading Normans destroyed the abbey in 885-886; however, the abbey and church were rebuilt from 990 - 1021. Of course, over the years, it has transformed significantly. The iconic Romanesque tower was built in the 11th century and is a historic symbol for the entire neighborhood. The chancel near the alter was enlarged in the 12th century. During the 13th century, Pierre de Montreuil built the Gothic cloisters, Chapelle de la Vierge, refectory, and dormitory making this one of the most attractive and affluent abbeys of its day.
17th century restorations saw the vaulted wood ceilings beautifully painted while 19th century restorations added murals above the arches by Jean-Hippolyte Flandrin in 1840.
Louis-César de Bourbon, son of Louis XIV and Madame de Montespan, was buried here, but even more famous is the tomb of philosopher René Descartes in the the Saint Benoit chapel. Until 751, all French kings of the Merovingian dynasty were buried here, too.
Today, the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a fully active church with far fewer tourists than Notre Dame. We didn't need a guide to feel the history or sense of spiritual nourishment; however there is a iPhone and Android guide available for a small charge. Free guided tours are offered at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The Paroisse Saint-Germain-des-Prés may not be as famous or breathtaking as some Paris landmarks; however, it was just as historic and inspirational for me. read more