Église Saint-Roch
Unfinished Neo-Gothic church in Paris, famed for Napoleon's canon impacts and relics of St. Roch.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Église Saint-Roch
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Unfinished Neo-Gothic church in Paris, famed for Napoleon's canon impacts and relics of St. Roch.
"Worth a short visit for its historical scars and vibrant stained glass."
🎯 Check Hours Beforehand
Opening times can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment.
📜 Look for Napoleon's Marks
Seek out the historical shrapnel impacts on the exterior walls for a unique connection to the past.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Napoleon's Canon Impacts
Exterior walls
See the actual shrapnel marks left by Napoleon's cannons during a historic revolt.
St. Roch's Bone Fragments
Reliquary
Allegedly holds sacred bone fragments of Saint Roch, a significant relic for visitors.
Vibrant Stained-Glass Windows
Interior
Admire the colorful and detailed stained-glass windows that illuminate the church's interior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Hours Beforehand
Opening times can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment.
📜 Look for Napoleon's Marks
Seek out the historical shrapnel impacts on the exterior walls for a unique connection to the past.
Hi guys, I’m officially visiting Paris for the first time in 3 weeks, does anyone have any recommendations for places to go that aren’t the usual mainstream things? Looking for some hidden gems of French history and the like, can be related to Napoleanic era or not, thanks!
✨ Admire the Stained Glass
The vibrant stained-glass windows are a key feature, especially when sunlight streams through.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Remember it's a place of worship; observe quiet reverence and follow any posted guidelines.
I visited the church of Saint-Roch, where Napoleon destroyed a royalist revolt. His canon's shrapnel impacts are still there
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Hours Beforehand
Opening times can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment.
📜 Look for Napoleon's Marks
Seek out the historical shrapnel impacts on the exterior walls for a unique connection to the past.
✨ Admire the Stained Glass
The vibrant stained-glass windows are a key feature, especially when sunlight streams through.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Remember it's a place of worship; observe quiet reverence and follow any posted guidelines.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Église Saint-Roch to be a worthwhile stop, particularly for its unique historical connection to Napoleon's canon fire and its beautiful stained-glass windows. While some describe the interior as simple, its historical significance and the presence of St. Roch's relics make it a point of interest. Be sure to check opening hours as they can be inconsistent.
"This Neo-Gothic church was only partially completed in 1867. There are allegedly bone fragments from St Roche in the church. Nice stained glass.
Worth a short visit."
Mike Zito
"Nothing special, not sure why the guides recommend it"
Fra Saert
"Impressive. Not always open. See the photo with the opening hours."
G Kom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Église Saint-Roch is centrally located in Paris. You can easily reach it via the Paris Métro, with stations like Pyramides (Lines 7 and 14) and Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7) being nearby. Several bus lines also serve the area.
Yes, it is very accessible by public transport. The nearest Métro stations are within a short walking distance, making it convenient for tourists using the Paris public transportation system.
Many visitors arrive by Métro and then enjoy a short walk through the charming streets of the 1st arrondissement. The area around the church is pedestrian-friendly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Église Saint-Roch is generally free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special events or services that might affect access or require a donation.
Opening hours can be inconsistent and may vary. It's highly recommended to check the church's official website or local listings before your visit, as some reviews mention it's not always open.
Typically, there is no admission fee to enter the church. Donations are always welcome to help with the upkeep of this historic site.
While churches are often open on Sundays for services, it's best to verify the specific visiting hours for Église Saint-Roch on Sundays, as they might differ from weekdays.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can see the alleged bone fragments of St. Roch, beautiful stained-glass windows, and the simple yet elegant Neo-Gothic architecture. Some visitors note the interior is rather simple.
Yes, the church is known for visible traces of Napoleon's canon fire on its exterior walls, a significant historical marker from a past revolt.
Many visitors find it suitable for a short visit, often described as 'worth a short visit.' The historical elements and architecture can be appreciated in a relatively brief time.
The church is primarily Neo-Gothic, though it was only partially completed in the 19th century. This style influences its interior and exterior design.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to check for any posted signs or ask church officials if you're unsure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Église Saint-Roch is located in a vibrant area of Paris with many cafes and restaurants surrounding it, offering various dining options.
Absolutely! The area is dotted with charming cafes, perfect for a coffee break before or after your visit to the church.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a visit with a walk through the nearby Tuileries Garden or Palais Royal, which offer more space for children to run around. The surrounding area also has many cafes for a family-friendly snack break.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond Napoleon, the church's unfinished Neo-Gothic architecture and its association with Saint Roch, a patron saint against plagues, add further layers of historical and religious interest. It's a site where different eras of Parisian history converge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: Napoleon's Impact
This historical context adds a unique layer to the church's appeal, distinguishing it from many other Parisian religious sites. It's a reminder that even sacred spaces can be intertwined with the dramatic events of a nation's past. Visitors can spend time examining these marks, imagining the chaos and significance of that day.
The Sacred Relics and Architectural Style
Architecturally, the church is a testament to 19th-century Neo-Gothic design, though it remained unfinished. This style is characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large windows, which in Saint-Roch's case, feature vibrant stained glass. While some visitors describe the interior as 'rather simple,' the beauty of the stained-glass windows, especially when illuminated by sunlight, is frequently highlighted as a key aesthetic feature.
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