Eglise Saint-Etienne-du-Mont (Church of Saint-Etienne-du-Mont), Paris

Sitting on the hill of Sainte-Geneviève, which is considered the birthplace of Paris, this parish church dedicated to the city's patron saint is a magnificent example of the eclectic architecture styles of the Flamboyant, Gothic, and Renaissance periods. It was constructed between 1492 and 1622 on the site of a previous church and has a 3-level structure, resembling a wedding cake, with a Gothic pinnacle and a tall bell tower. The entrance is reminiscent of a Greek temple with columns and decorations depicting St. Stephen's martyrdom.

The interior is equally stunning, featuring beautiful stained-glass windows, golden ceiling decorations, and the baroque 17th-century pulpit with a sculpture of Samson bearing the weight of the barrel. However, the most significant feature of this ancient church is its rood screen: the ornate partition between the chancel and nave, a common element in late medieval architecture. Saint-Etienne-du-Mont has the only remaining rood screen in Paris, which features finely carved stone and a spiral staircase on both sides. The railing displays stone lace carved in limestone.

The church houses the tombs of French diplomat Blaise de Vigenere, mathematician Blaise Pascal, and playwright Jean Racine, while the cemetery contains the grave of the famous physician of the French Revolution, Jean-Paul Marat. The sculpted tympanum, known as the "Stoning of Saint Stephen," is the work of French sculptor Gabriel-Jules Thomas.

Huysmans described Saint-Etienne-du-Mont in the Connecting (1895) as one of the most beautiful churches in Paris. On August 23, 1997, Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass here during his visit to Paris on the occasion of World Youth Day.

Although free to tour, it is still a functioning place of worship, so please dress appropriately and respect those there to pray.