ÉGLISE SAINT-EUSTACHE

The Église Saint-Eustache, located in the heart of the Halles district of Paris, is an architectural masterpiece harmoniously blending Gothic, Renaissance and Classical styles. Construction began in 1532, at the instigation of François I, and lasted until 1637, the date of its consecration. The result of this long construction period is an imposing structure, 105 metres long and 43.5 metres wide, with a height under vault of 33.46 metres, slightly higher than that of Notre-Dame de Paris. The space comprises a large central nave with five aisles, a transept that bisects the building, and a choir surrounded by a circular passageway containing 24 small chapels. The richly decorated chapels reflect the artistic diversity of the church, with works by painters such as Simon Vouet and Antoine Soulignac.

The organ at Saint-Eustache, one of the largest in France, is a true acoustic gem. With 8,000 pipes and 101 stops on five manuals, it was designed in 1989 by organist Jean Guillou and the Dutch van den Heuvel workshop. The instrument has hosted prestigious concerts, including the premiere of Hector Berlioz's "Te Deum" in 1855. Among the remarkable contemporary works, Keith Haring's triptych "The Life of Christ" stands out. Created in 1989, shortly before the artist's death, this bronze triptych with a white gold patina is on display in the Saint-Vincent-de-Paul chapel. It testifies to the church's commitment to modern art and its desire to be a meeting place for faith and culture. The church has also witnessed many historic events. Louis XIV made his First Communion here in 1649, and personalities such as Richelieu, Molière and Madame de Pompadour were baptized here. More recently, funerals of public figures, such as Gaspard Ulliel in 2022, have taken place within its walls. Every Sunday, the church offers free concerts at 5pm, giving visitors the opportunity to appreciate the incredible acoustics of the organ in a solemn setting. These concerts attract a varied audience, from music lovers to the simply curious, and help to make Saint-Eustache a lively and dynamic venue in the heart of Paris.

Last but not least, the church is more than just architecture and works of art: it's a veritable cultural hub. Guided tours reveal anecdotes and construction secrets, while temporary exhibitions spotlight contemporary artists.