Sainte-Chapelle — History, Storyline, Tours & Visitor Info
Marvel at Paris’s radiant “Jewel Box”: soaring stained-glass walls, royal chapels and Gothic splendor. Choose your tour and plan a seamless 2025 visit.
Book Entry Ticket €13Why Visit Sainte-Chapelle?
Commissioned by King Louis IX in 1241 to house holy relics, Sainte-Chapelle embodies High Gothic art. Its 15 stained-glass panels flood the chapel with jewel-toned light and biblical storytelling.
Stained-Glass Masterpiece
1,113 glass scenes depict scripture from Genesis to Apocalypse in vibrant medieval hues.
Royal Chapel
Once the king’s private oratory, complete with relic reliquary and exquisite vaulted ceilings.
Quick Timeline
- 1241 — Louis IX begins construction to house the Crown of Thorns.
- 1248 — Sainte-Chapelle consecrated and relics installed.
- 1793 — French Revolution damages interior; relics seized.
- 1840 — Viollet-le-Duc restoration restores Gothic glory.
- 1906 — Classified as a Monument Historique.
- 2025 — New multimedia guided tours debut.
Top Experiences
Self-Guided Entry
Explore at leisure with a timed e-ticket and optional audio app.
Guided Tours
Learn chapel secrets and symbolism from expert art historians.
VIP Access
Skip the line, enjoy small-group access to the upper chapel.
Combo Tickets
Pair Sainte-Chapelle with Conciergerie or Île de la Cité walking tours.
Insider Tips
Visit at Opening
Arrive at 09:00 for the clearest light through the glass and fewer crowds.
Audio Guide App
Download free English/French commentary for in-depth relic stories.
Visitor Cheatsheet
Opening Hours
Daily 09:00–19:00 (last entry 18:00); closed 1 Jan & 25 Dec.
Ticket Options
Entry €13 | Entry + Conciergerie €20 | Guided Tour €55 | VIP €75
Photography
Non-flash photography allowed—tripods or large gear require permission.
How to Get There
Metro 4 to Cité; bus 21/24 stop at Pont Notre-Dame; walk from Île de la Cité.
Ready to Discover?
Secure your Sainte-Chapelle ticket, choose your tour style and unlock Paris’s medieval gem.
Book Entry Ticket €13