Royal necropolis and Gothic masterpiece
The Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis is a major historic monument – the first great achievement of Gothic architecture and the burial place of the kings and queens of France since the Middle Ages.
An architectural treasure
Built in the 12th century by Abbot Suger, the basilica is considered the first masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its innovations (flying buttresses, ribbed vaulting, coloured stained glass) inspired Notre-Dame de Paris and the cathedrals of France.
The royal necropolis
More than 70 royal effigies and tombs, including:
- Merovingians – Dagobert I
- Capetians – Hugh Capet, Louis IX (Saint Louis)
- Valois – Francis I, Henry II and Catherine de Medici
- Bourbons – Henry IV, Louis XIV, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette
Practical information
Admission: €9.50 adults / Free under 26 (EU)
Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–6:15pm, Sun 12pm–6:15pm
Visit: Self-guided or guided tour (1h–1h30)
Audio guide: Available in several languages
Getting here from La Villa Le Bourget
RER B: Direction Paris, stop Saint-Denis Porte de Paris (15 min)
By car: 10 minutes, paid parking at Place Jean Jaurès
Walking from the station: 5 minutes
