Eglise Saint Louis (Church of Saint Louis), Grenoble

The Church of Saint Louis is a historic parish church founded at the end of the 17th century by the Bishop of Grenoble. Established to serve two new districts-one inside the city and the other outside the walls-the church was consecrated in 1699 by Bishop Le Camus and dedicated to Saint Louis, the patron saint of King Louis XIV and protector of France. The construction of the church, initiated in 1689, was overseen by Claude Mollart, the king's engineer and local architect. The building’s classical French architecture is deliberately simple, reflecting economic considerations, but its design remains elegant, shaped as a Latin cross.

The church's interior features several notable elements, including an 18th-century high altar and paintings created by Dominican friar Brother André in the 1680s. These artworks, originally installed in the Dominican church, were relocated to Saint Louis in 1805. The choir is enhanced with beautiful walnut woodwork in the form of choir stalls, confessionals, and a pulpit, all dating back to the 17th century. A striking white marble Virgin, potentially crafted by a 16th-century sculptor from Grenoble, adds to the church's visual appeal, while stained-glass windows from 1925 and 1934 offer a contrast in artistic styles.

The church is also known for its renowned organs. In 1980, the original 17th-century organs were moved to the Abbey of Saint Antoine, and a new, highly regarded organ was installed. Crafted by French organ builder Bartoloméo Fromentelli, this instrument features 61 stops and over 4,600 pipes, making it one of the finest examples of its kind. An original and striking feature of the church is the large oculus above the entrance, which houses both a stained-glass window and the church’s clock.