Cathedrale Saint-Louis (Saint Louis Cathedral), Versailles (must see)

The Saint Louis Cathedral is a revered National Monument with a rich historical background. Originally built on the site of the former parish church of Saint Louis, it was constructed in 1754 by Jacques Hardouin-Mansart and gained its cathedral status in 1790. The cathedral's striking Neo-classical façade is adorned with Doric and Corinthian columns, two bell towers, and a dome with a spire shaped like a baluster over the Crossing, reflecting the architectural elegance of the era.

In 1755, six bells were installed in the cathedral's towers, named after prominent figures of the time, including Queen Marie, Princess Josephine of Savoy, and four of King Louis XV’s children: Adelaide, Louise, Sophie, and Victoria. However, during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, these bells were removed and melted down, and the cathedral was repurposed as the Temple of Abundance. It wasn't until 1843 that the building was restored to its former glory and reinstated as a cathedral.

The Saint Louis Cathedral boasts 17 side chapels, each with unique dedications. On the left side of the transept, visitors can find the chapels dedicated to the Dead, Saint Julian, Saint Genevieve, and Saint Peter, along with those of Ecce Homo, Providence, Saint François, Saint Vincent, Saint Paul, Saint Joseph, and the Sacred Heart. Each chapel offers a glimpse into various aspects of religious devotion and historical significance.

On the right side, the Chapel of Baptism features its baptismal fonts, alongside the Chapel of the Presentation of the Saint Virgin and the Chapel of Saint Charles. Surrounding the quire beyond the transept are three additional chapels dedicated to the Good Minister, Saint Louis, and Saint John the Baptist. These chapels collectively enhance the cathedral’s spiritual and architectural richness, making it a significant landmark in Versailles.