- 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, prominently located on the Place de la Madeleine in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, stands out as a monumental 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, each contributing to its grandeur. This historical monument, overseen by the Archdiocese of Paris, was originally established as a chapel dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene, St. Martha, and Saint-Lazare. It has a rich history beginning in the 13th century, with the original structure being replaced in 1492 and subsequently expanded in 1639 to serve the growing population of the suburb, followed by further enlargements in 1659 and 1698.
The ambitious journey of La Madeleine’s reconstruction began in 1757 under the direction of architect Pierre Contant d’Ivry, who originally envisioned a design in the shape of a Latin cross. Construction officially commenced on August 3, 1763, but was abruptly halted with d’Ivry’s death fourteen years later. His successor, Guillaume Martin Couture, shifted the design to a Greek cross structure topped with a dome, drawing inspiration from the Church of St. Genevieve. Despite Couture’s innovative plans, the project faced numerous setbacks, including a suspension in 1791 by the National Assembly, and the eventual demolition of Couture’s foundations in 1811. The project’s direction was further influenced by Napoleon, who reverted the building’s purpose back to that of a church, though it was only completed after the return of the Bourbons to power. King Louis XVIII then commissioned architect Vignon to construct an expiatory chapel nearby, a project that was eventually 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 is renowned for its impressive organ, originally designed in 1846 by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, revised in 1927, and electrified in 1971, with additional enhancements completed in 1988. This grand organ features four manuals and a pedal with 58 stops, meticulously structured by Dargassies. The choir organ, consisting of two 56-note keyboards and a 32-note pedalboard with 20 stops, was constructed in 1843 and has also seen several modifications, including electrification and the installation of 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 was consecrated on October 9, 1845, by Archbishop Affre of Paris, marking its completion as an architectural marvel and a repository of artistic brilliance. Today, La Madeleine not only serves as a place of worship but also 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 Paris airports to the iconic Church of La Madeleine, our reliable collective shuttle service is your best choice. This service not only offers convenience but also a comfortable travel experience, letting you focus on the cultural significance of this Parisian landmark without any transportation worries.
Whether coming from Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airport, our service provides an efficient solution. With competitive fees and less hassle than taxis or public transport, it’s designed for those carrying luggage or tired from long flights. Feedback from travelers underscores the ease and reliability of our shuttles, which offer a direct route to your destination in Paris. Experience the perfect blend of cost-effectiv