The Journées du Patrimoine, an emblematic cultural event created in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture, is a unique opportunity to discover the hidden treasures of our heritage. Every year, on the third weekend of September, thousands of sites, often closed to the public, open their doors all over France. In Paris, this event takes on a special dimension, allowing residents and visitors alike to explore the cultural riches of the capital and its surroundings.
Duringthe Journées du Patrimoine 2024, Paris and the Île-de-France region are brimming with exceptional sites not to be missed. History buffs can marvel at iconic sites such as the Pantheon, theNational Assembly and the Louvre, to name but a few. Through guided tours, exhibitions and workshops, these days are an opportunity to learn more about the history of the region and our country. In the Île-de-France region, castles such as Versailles and Fontainebleau also offer richly varied programs for the whole family.
One of Paris's must-see religious sites is Saint-Alexandre Nevsky Cathedral, in the 8th arrondissement. Located near the Arc de Triomphe, this Russian Orthodox cathedral, built in 1861, is a true masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. It was built to serve the Russian expatriate community in Paris, at a time when the city was home to a large Russian diaspora.
Saint-Alexandre-Nevsky Cathedral, the Russian Orthodox Church of Paris
Paris is home to a magnificent Russian Orthodox cathedral, the Cathédrale Saint-Alexandre-Nevsky, in the 8th arrondissement. An unusual sight on the streets of Paris, its richly decorated interior can be visited 3 times a week! [Read more]
Guided tour of the cathedral. Consecrated in 1863 in the presence of Eugène de Montijo, wife of Napoleon III, the cathedral has become Paris' leading Orthodox religious center, witnessing Russian life in Paris for over 150 years, from Picasso's first marriage to the daughter of an imperial army officer to the funeral of Michel Legrand, husband of Macha Méril, née Princess Gagarin.
A visit to the cathedral will provide an insight into the Orthodox Christian rite, starting with the spiritual and artistic meaning of icons. A presentation of the school of iconography will complete these explanations.
Dates and Opening Time
From September 20, 2024 to September 22, 2024
Location
Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
12 Rue Daru
75008 Paris 8
Saint-Alexandre-Nevsky Cathedral, the Russian Orthodox Church of Paris
