Monthly Archives: February 2012
Sainte Chapelle in Paris
Posted by in General, Government, Guide, Hotels, News, Paris Landmarks, Paris Tour, Shopping, Tips
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La Sainte-Chapelle the Palais de Justice complex on the Ile de la Cité in the center of Paris is the last surviving building of the Capetian royal palace. It is the most exemplary building of the Rayonnant Style of Gothic architecture.
Its construction began around 1239 and was financed by France’s King Louis IX. Its architecture was so marvelous and made so strong that it stands straight even today. Although it is true that much of the structure is new as it was restored after the building suffered severe damages during the French revolution.
It is situated atop a square chapel and was meant to house the precious relics of Christ possessed by King Louis IX. Among the items that it once housed is the Crown of Thorns, the Image of Edessa, passion relics etc.
The chapel’s main attraction is its stained glass windows. The workmanship of those is unparalleled. There are around 13 of these breathtaking pieces and though some of them suffered severe damages they still retain their essence and their meaning can easily be understood.
Most of these windows depict religious issues. Among the topics illustrated on the windows of the eastern apse, are the New Testament, scenes of The Passion, Life of John the Evangelist and baby Christ. While the windows on the nave feature more of the Old Testament beginning with Book of Genesis and going through Exodus, Joseph, Numbers/Leviticus, Joshua/Deuteronomy, Judges, Jeremiah/Tobias, Judith/Job, Esther, David and finally coming to the Book of Kings.
These windows are masterpieces that you must see if you ever visit Paris. Though there are not less number of things to see in Paris, be sure not to forget to include Sainte Chapelle in your list!
The Centre Pompidou museum in Paris
Posted by in General, Guide, Hotels, News, Paris Landmarks, Paris Tour, Shopping, Tips
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Whenever, we think of Paris as a tourist destination, the first thought that comes to our mind is that of the Eiffel tower. However, it must be known that there are a lot of other attractions in Paris. One such tourist spot for the lovers of modern art and architecture is the Centre Pompidou which is a museum in Paris dedicated to all forms of modern and contemporary creations, including literature, theatre, film and music. Centre Pompidou, in fact, is the third most visited Paris attraction with about 5.5 million visitors a year.
The museum opened in 1977 and the vision behind this spectacular museum is that of President Georges Pompidou, who got this museum designed by architects Renzo Piano. The visitors to this museum can also take souvenirs from the gift shops and the three bookshops in Centre Pompidou. There is also a design boutique on the mezzanine which holds a collections of unique, funky and artsy souvenirs and gifts. There are a lot of choices for a quick bite when at this museum. While one can stop at the one of the two quick and casual eateries, a better choice would be the level 6 Restaurant Georges with panoramic views of Paris.
the basic ticket to the museum and exhibitions costs around €12 during the busy tourist season and €10 in the off-season. Those under 18 can enter the museum and exhibits for free, and those ages 18-25 can enter on Wednesday evenings through June 2008. The first Sunday of each month allows free entry to the museum.
When visiting this museum, be sure to take a visit to the pop-art-esque Stravinsky Fountain which captivates the tourists with its bright lips, heart and elephant figures.