Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes
A stunning Gothic chapel within the Chateau de Vincennes, famed for its luminous stained-glass windows and rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Skip lines, enjoy music
Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes
Best Time
Skip lines, enjoy music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Gothic chapel within the Chateau de Vincennes, famed for its luminous stained-glass windows and rich history.
"One of the loveliest gothic style chapels, with high ceilings and abundant windows making it very bright inside."
🎯 Concert Ticket Advantage
Book concert tickets for a dedicated entrance & a unique experience. 🎟️
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
The chateau has many spiral stairs; wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 174 reviews
Type
Church
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Stained Glass
Chapel interior
Bathed in light, the magnificent stained-glass windows are a breathtaking spectacle, showcasing intricate Gothic artistry.
Gothic Architecture
Chapel interior and exterior
Admire the clean, soaring lines of this beautiful Gothic chapel, a smaller but equally impressive counterpart to its Parisian namesake.
Duke of Enghien's Tomb
King's oratory
A poignant historical site featuring an impressive statue commemorating Louis Antoine de Bourbon, Duke of Enghien.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Concerts
Chateau Access & Steps
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Concert Ticket Advantage
Book concert tickets for a dedicated entrance & a unique experience. 🎟️
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
The chateau has many spiral stairs; wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Light
Visit during the day to see the stained glass illuminated by natural light.
🗺️ Combine with Chateau Visit
The chapel is within the Chateau de Vincennes; explore both for a full experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Concert Ticket Advantage
Book concert tickets for a dedicated entrance & a unique experience. 🎟️
👟 Be Ready for Stairs
The chateau has many spiral stairs; wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Light
Visit during the day to see the stained glass illuminated by natural light.
🗺️ Combine with Chateau Visit
The chapel is within the Chateau de Vincennes; explore both for a full experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes for its stunning Gothic architecture and breathtaking stained-glass windows, often describing it as a hidden gem. While some find the chateau itself a bit empty, the chapel's beauty and historical significance are undeniable highlights. The opportunity to attend concerts is also a frequently mentioned positive aspect.
"The Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes is one of the loveliest gothic style chapels we saw. The chapel is not huge in size but the architecture is very clean. The high ceilings and abundance of windows make it very bright inside. The view of the interior, from the raised section above the doors, is very impressive."
Louis and Elaine
"Magnificent chapel built in the style of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris. Building begun during the reign of King Charles V in 1379, but was not until the reign of Henry II in 1552 that the chapel was finally completed.
It is situated inside the fortified walls of the Chateau de Vincennes. Although extensively damaged several times throughout it's history, the chapel has been beautifully restored, with the stained-glass windows being particularly stunning.
The King's oratory, to the left of the nave, contains the tomb of Louis Antoine de Bourbon, Duke of Enghien. The Duke was a French nobleman who served in the Royalist Army of Condé, which was commanded by his grandfather, the Prince of Condé. Whilst living in exile in Baden in 1804, he was abducted by French Dragoons acting under the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte. Taken to the chateau de Vincennes, he was tried and executed, then buried in the moat of the castle. After the restoration of the monarchy, his remains were recovered and reinterred inside the chapel. The impressive statue over his tomb consists of four figures, the Duke being led to his fate by Religion, whilst a grieving France looks on as Crime, armed with a knife and wreathed in snakes, advances towards him."
Simon Abercrombie
"A very impressive chateau! Be prepared for a large number of steps in the spiral staircases! Tickets are required to access certain parts of the chateau (9.50 Euros each)"
Hugh Ritchie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes is located within the Chateau de Vincennes. You can easily reach it via Paris Metro Line 1 to the 'Château de Vincennes' station. From there, it's a short walk to the chateau entrance.
While there might be some street parking in the Vincennes area, it can be limited. Using public transport is generally recommended for easier access.
The Sainte-Chapelle is part of the Chateau de Vincennes complex, and access to it typically requires a ticket for the chateau. It's best to plan for a visit to both.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Chateau de Vincennes, which includes access to the Sainte-Chapelle, is approximately 9.50 Euros per person. Prices can vary, so it's advisable to check the official website for the most current information.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or wish to attend a concert. This can help you avoid long queues.
The opening hours are generally aligned with the Chateau de Vincennes. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Yes, chamber music concerts are frequently held at the Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes. Attending a concert often provides a dedicated entrance and a unique way to experience the chapel.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or restrictions on the day of your visit. Avoid using flash, especially during services or concerts.
The elevated section above the doors offers a fantastic perspective of the entire chapel, including the altar, ribbed ceiling, and stained glass.
Drone photography is typically not permitted within historical monuments like the Sainte-Chapelle de Vincennes or the Chateau de Vincennes due to security and preservation reasons.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the stunning Gothic architecture, the magnificent stained-glass windows, and the tomb of the Duke of Enghien in the King's oratory.
Children might enjoy the grandeur and the 'labyrinth' feel of the chateau, but be aware of the numerous stairs. The emptiness of the chateau might make it hard for younger children to visualize its past.
To fully appreciate the chapel and its surroundings within the chateau, allocate at least 1-2 hours. If you plan to attend a concert, factor in additional time.
Restroom facilities are generally available within the Chateau de Vincennes complex.
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