Paris Churches

What is there to say on my 3rd night in Paris? Perhaps too much. I'm in one of the most celebrated vacation attractions in the world right now. I think I'll perhaps share a bit of themed travel advice to accompany some pictures.

My advice is to see the small churches of Paris. Notre Dame was underwhelming for me. Perhaps it's from being in massive Dutch churches for the past few weeks, or my dislike of tourists, but it really didn't do much for me, aside from the organ playing. Speaking of which, I did get to go to the loft and watch the titulaire organist improvise the Mass, which was incredible! Volumes have been spilled about his talent. But I'm staying near some wonderful churches in the Latin Quarter, and I highly recommend that anyone visiting Paris avoid the long lines and poor comportment of the crowds at Notre Dame and look for a church in their neighborhood. Here's a few I've seen so far - I've decided to forego editing and just post the raw photos:


Ok, it's kinda big...


Waiting in line... if you know me, you know that I despise waiting in lines. This was by the time I got halfway through the line.


The only part worth the wait! ...ok, the choir organ was cool too.


This was the most exciting part: seeing the original Cavaille-Coll console!!!

St. Severin

This is a beautiful church dating in part from the 14th century. I discovered this church while wandering the Latin Quarter. It's right in the middle of all the restaurants.




In Europe or the US, I walk into any church backwards so that I can see the organ!




I was reminded of the old quote from Luther, something about there being enough finger bones of St. John the Baptist in Germany to build a new cathedral.

St. Nicolas-du-Chardonnet

This church is in fact across the street from my hotel! After exploring for a while (and noticing an absence of a Low Altar), I realized this church is run by the schismatic Catholic group SSPX. There were 3 organs that I counted; a grand orgue, choir organ, and for some reason an Allen electronic organ.




An obscured view (I had to rest my camera on something to keep it steady) of the choir organ.


The priest was preparing for a Requiem Mass; you may notice the black altar dressings.

St. Germain-des-Pres




It has really beautiful stained glass!


The case strikes me as Germanic, but this is a French Classic organ.


I've developed an unhealthy fixation with choir organs.

I have many more photos, but I thought a general photo dump with some background would keep people happy. Au revoir!