Église Saint-François de Sales
A serene baroque church by the Le Thiou canal, offering a peaceful escape with a beautiful interior and historical charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet
Église Saint-François de Sales
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene baroque church by the Le Thiou canal, offering a peaceful escape with a beautiful interior and historical charm.
"Beautiful church understated on the outside but full on inside, great position."
📸 Capture the Canal
The waterside location offers beautiful photo ops, especially with the canal. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Be Mindful of Services
This is an active church. Keep noise to a minimum and dress respectfully. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Le Thiou Canal Views
Waterside exterior
Admire the church's serene setting overlooking the picturesque Le Thiou canal.
Understated Interior
Main sanctuary
Experience the bright, white walls and intricately designed religious artifacts.
Baroque Altar
Altar area
Marvel at the stunning baroque altar, a focal point of the church's design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quiet Contemplation
Respectful Visits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Canal
The waterside location offers beautiful photo ops, especially with the canal. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Be Mindful of Services
This is an active church. Keep noise to a minimum and dress respectfully. :pray:
Question about St Francis de Sales Oratory
[Free Friday] Mass at Saint Francis de Sales Oratory in Saint Louis, MO.
🚶♀️ Explore the Area
It's near Palais de l'Île and the lake, perfect for a stroll. :walking:
💡 Appreciate the History
Built in 1614, it has a rich past, including being a factory during the Revolution. :scroll:
St Francis de Sales Oratory, St Louis
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Canal
The waterside location offers beautiful photo ops, especially with the canal. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Be Mindful of Services
This is an active church. Keep noise to a minimum and dress respectfully. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore the Area
It's near Palais de l'Île and the lake, perfect for a stroll. :walking:
💡 Appreciate the History
Built in 1614, it has a rich past, including being a factory during the Revolution. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Église Saint-François de Sales for its beautiful waterside location and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape. The understated exterior belies a bright interior with a stunning baroque altar and intricate religious artifacts. While some note the need for maintenance, its historical significance and picturesque setting make it a worthwhile visit.
"Nice church to visit overlooking the Le Thiou canal. The area was very beautiful and clean and worth the visit."
Ash
"Located near the Lake Annecy and in the centre of town.
The church is big and beautiful. The church has many beautiful intricately designed religious artefacts.
It seems to me that within the church lie the remains of Saint Francois and Saint Jeanne de Chantal cause i saw what looked like their tombs.
The walls are white and they brighten up the church. The chairs or benches look like ther are of a different era
The church is a good place to visit if you are around the area. The church certainly needs a lot of maintenance to save the beautiful artefacts. The altar is stunning."
Dr Reviews
"The church is located next to the canal flowing into the lake Annecy. Beautiful church understated on the outside but full on inside, great position."
Con Stroulios
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is centrally located in Annecy, near the Le Thiou canal and Lake Annecy. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the old town. Public transport options are available to reach the city center, from where it's a short walk.
Parking in Annecy's old town can be challenging. It's best to use public parking garages located a short walk from the church, such as Parking Bonlieu or Parking Hôtel de Ville.
Yes, many Annecy walking tours include a stop at or near the church due to its central and scenic location by the canal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Église Saint-François de Sales is typically free. It's a place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter and admire its architecture and interior.
Opening hours can vary, but churches are generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire nearby for the most current times, especially if you plan to visit during specific services.
Admission is generally free. Donations are often appreciated to help with the upkeep and maintenance of the church and its artifacts.
Yes, the church is an active place of worship. Information about mass schedules can usually be found on the church's website or posted at the entrance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted inside churches, but it's important to be discreet and respectful. Avoid using flash, especially during services, and be mindful of other visitors.
The exterior views along the Le Thiou canal are particularly scenic. Inside, the baroque altar and the bright, white interior offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
While generally allowed, some areas might have restrictions, or it might be discouraged during religious ceremonies. Always observe any posted signs or ask for clarification if unsure.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The church was originally built in 1614 in the baroque style. It has undergone restorations, with a significant one in 2003.
The church is built in the baroque style, characterized by its ornate decorations and dramatic flair, though its facade is noted as understated.
While their tombs were once housed here, they were later moved to the Basilica of the Visitation. Visitors might see memorials or indications of their historical presence.
During the French Revolution, the church was repurposed and transformed into a factory. It was later returned to religious use in 1923.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to ensure a peaceful experience. The surrounding area is great for a family walk, and the church can be a brief, quiet interlude in a day of exploring Annecy's attractions. Remember to emphasize respectful behavior within the church premises.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
Take your time to admire the baroque altar and the understated beauty of the interior. The canal-side setting is perfect for quiet reflection or simply enjoying the ambiance. Don't hesitate to explore the surrounding area, which is rich with historical sites and scenic views.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles to capture the interplay of light and shadow, both on the exterior and the interior baroque altar. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for dramatic shots. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography inside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Charm and Historical Significance
Restored in 2003, the church continues to be a place of worship and a point of historical interest. Its location next to the Le Thiou canal adds to its charm, offering picturesque views and a pleasant atmosphere. The benches or chairs within the church are noted to be of a different era, adding to its unique character. Despite some mentions of needing maintenance, the church's beauty and historical weight are undeniable.
For those interested in religious history and architecture, the Église Saint-François de Sales provides a compelling glimpse into the past. It's a place where historical events and artistic expression converge, offering a serene environment for contemplation and appreciation.
A Serene Waterside Setting
Visitors often find the area around the church to be very beautiful and clean, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The proximity to other Annecy landmarks, such as the Palais de l'Île, makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the city on foot. The pleasant atmosphere created by the canal and the surrounding architecture is frequently highlighted in reviews.
Capturing the church against the backdrop of the canal is a popular photographic opportunity. The interplay of light on the water and the church's facade can create stunning images, especially during the golden hours of the morning or late afternoon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit