Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés
The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés stands as the oldest church in Paris, with origins dating back to the year 542. It was founded by King Childebert and has witnessed centuries of dramatic history. While its foundations are ancient, most of the church seen today was built in the 11th century, during its time as the heart of a powerful Benedictine abbey.
Moments of Turmoil and Change
The French Revolution brought significant upheaval to the abbey. In 1794, the monastic community was dissolved, and many of the surrounding buildings were destroyed by fire. Just two years earlier, in September 1792, tragedy struck nearby when a mob killed 318 priests, marking one of the Revolution’s darkest episodes.
Architecture Through the Ages
Over time, the church has undergone various restorations, especially in the 19th century. This has helped preserve its unique combination of architectural styles: ancient marble columns from the 6th century, Gothic vaults, and Romanesque arches all stand together under one roof. The blend of styles tells the story of the church’s long and varied past.
Resting Place of Notable Figures
The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is also known for being the burial site of several famous individuals. Among those laid to rest within its walls are the philosopher René Descartes, poet Nicolas Boileau, and King John Casimir of Poland, who served as abbot of the monastery before his death in 1669.
Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint-Germain-des-Pr%C3%A9s_(abbey)