Madeleine Church

Madeleine Church

The Madeleine Church (L'église Sainte-Marie-Madeleine), also translated as the Madeleine Church, is a church located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, France. It is built in the neoclassical style and is surrounded by 52 Corinthian columns, each 20 meters high. It was originally intended to commemorate the glory of Napoleon’s army. The Madeleine Church is situated at the northern end of Rue Royale on the north side of the Place de la Concorde, with the Place Vendôme to the east and the Church of Saint-Augustin to the west. It is one of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Paris.

The Madeleine Church is a Greek-style church. Its wide steps, towering Corinthian colonnade, and pedimented roof give the exterior the solemn and majestic appearance of a Greek temple. The interior is adorned with delicate, gold-plated decorations, and the statue of the Assumption of Mary behind the altar appears even more sacred and mysterious in the soft light. The church was first constructed in 1764 during the reign of Louis XV and took decades to build, going through several architects, until it was finally completed in 1824 during the reign of Napoleon. It was originally intended to be a monument celebrating the glory of the army. However, renovations continue to this day.

The architectural design of the Madeleine Church follows the style of a Greek temple, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence. The only source of natural light inside the church comes from three small domes, which enhance the beauty of the refined, gold-plated, and finely detailed decorations under a muted glow. The mural above the altar, titled “The History of Christianity,” depicts key figures in Christian history. The Madeleine Church belongs to the Benedictine Order and still holds masses as well as fashionable weddings.

L'église Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

Must-visit reason: One of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Paris

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: France[France]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Île-de-France Region [Ile-de-France Region]

City where the attraction is located: Paris [Paris]