- History and visit the Church of the Madeleine in Paris
- Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Heritage of La Madeleine
- Shuttle La Madeleine Church to Paris airports
History and Visit of the Church of the Madeleine in Paris
The Church of La Madeleine, located on the Place de la Madeleine in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, stands as a unique structure resembling a Greek temple, rather than a traditional parish church. Measuring 108 meters in length, 43 meters in width, and 30 meters in height, it is encircled by 52 majestic Corinthian columns. This historical monument, under the Archdiocese of Paris, originally served as a chapel dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene, St. Martha, and Saint-Lazare. Initially built in the 13th century, it was replaced in 1492, expanded in 1639 to serve the residents of the suburb, and underwent further enlargements in 1659 and 1698.
The journey of La Madeleine’s reconstruction began in 1757 with architect Pierre Contant d’Ivry, who envisioned a Latin cross design. Construction commenced on August 3, 1763, but was halted with d’Ivry’s death fourteen years later. His successor, Guillaume Martin Couture, proposed a Greek cross structure with a dome, inspired by the Church of St. Genevieve. However, the project faced numerous interruptions, including a suspension in 1791 by the National Assembly and subsequent demolition of Couture’s foundations in 1811. Napoleon’s influence reverted the design back to a church, but it was only completed after the return of the Bourbons. King Louis XVIII commissioned architect Vignon to build an expiatory chapel nearby, a project completed posthumously by Jean-Jacques-Marie Huvé in 1842.
Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Heritage of La Madeleine
La Madeleine’s front façade bears a Latin inscription dedicated to “the Almighty and Great God, under the invocation of St. Mary Magdalene.” The church boasts an impressive organ designed in 1846 by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, revised in 1927 and electrified in 1971, with further enhancements in 1988. This grand organ consists of four manuals, a pedal with 58 stops, and was meticulously structured by Dargassies. Another notable feature is the choir organ, comprising two 56-note keyboards and a 32-note pedalboard with 20 stops. Constructed in 1843, it too underwent several modifications, including electrification and a mobile console.
The interior decoration of La Madeleine, inspired by the frigidarium of the Pantheon in Rome, showcases contributions from renowned artists like François Bouchut, Auguste Couder, and Victor Schnetz, as well as sculptors Philippe Joseph Henri Lemaire, James Pradier, and Antoine Etex. The church’s consecration took place on October 9, 1845, by Archbishop Afire of Paris, marking its completion as an architectural marvel and a repository of artistic brilliance. Today, La Madeleine stands not just as a place of worship, but as a symbol of Parisian history and culture, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its grandeur and artistic legacy.
Shuttle Services to La Madeleine Church from Paris Airports
To ensure a seamless journey from the Paris airports to the remarkable Church of La Madeleine, our dedicated team offers a reliable and convenient collective shuttle service. The Church of La Madeleine is situated at a distance of 21.8 kilometers from Orly Airport, 32.4 kilometers from Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport, and 84.8 kilometers from Beauvais Airport.
Whether you are arriving in Paris for a spiritual journey or simply to admire the architectural grandeur of La Madeleine, our shuttle service ensures a comfortable and efficient transfer. We understand the importance of a hassle-free travel experience, allowing you to explore this iconic Parisian landmark without any transportation concerns. Let our team take care of your airport transfer, so you can focus on the cultural and historical significance of the Church of La Madeleine.