The European Heritage Days are an annual cultural event held throughout Europe in September. Initiated in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture, these days aim to promote cultural heritage by giving the general public free access to monuments, historic sites, museums and other places that are usually closed or not easily accessible.
In Paris, the European Heritage Days offer a unique opportunity to discover the capital's hidden treasures. Numerous emblematic buildings, such as the Palais de l'Élysée, Hôtel de Ville, ministries and embassies, open their doors to the public. In addition to institutional sites, visitors can explore cultural and religious sites, and even modern buildings that bear witness to the city's architectural evolution, through guided tours. Exhibitions and events are also organized to enrich this cultural experience.
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette church, located in the 9ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, is an outstanding example of the neoclassical style. Built between 1823 and 1836 under the direction of architect Louis-Hippolyte Lebas, it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Its architecture is inspired by ancient basilicas, with a facade adorned with Corinthian columns and an interior richly decorated with frescoes and marble. In addition to visits open to the public all year round, you can also take part in special workshops during the Heritage Days.
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette church gets a facelift! This major restoration of the building's facades began in May 2024, with the main facade on rue du Chateaudun and rue Flechier.
The Degaine company, a specialist in ashlar work with Monuments Historiques accreditation, is in charge of this large-scale project led by the City of Paris, with more than 4,200 m2 of surface area restored.
The stonemasons will be demonstrating their skills all weekend long.
The chapelle des Âmes du Purgatoire at Notre-Dame-de-Lorette was commissioned in 1836 from painter Merry-Joseph Blondel, who depicted the universal theme of death in several scenes. For many years, it served as a funeral chapel, where large torches were lit to watch over the bodies of the deceased.
In this chapel, Blondel, known as a portraitist and history painter, developed his talent as a decorator. His Romantic-inspired style contrasts with that adopted by artists in the other corner chapels. The restoration of this décor will finally enable visitors to discover these scenes, blackened by time and the use of candles.
The tour of the worksite will be led by the City of Paris curator in charge of the restoration.
Children under 10 years of age are not permitted.
Meet at the foot of the site in the church.
We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes. Being in good physical condition is also recommended.
A hard hat will be provided at the start of the tour.
Event must be booked in advance.
PLACES ARE LIMITED, SO PLEASE REGISTER IF YOU ARE FINALLY UNABLE TO ATTEND.
Dates and Opening Time
From September 21, 2024 to September 22, 2024
Location
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
18 Rue de Châteaudun
75009 Paris 9
Access
M°12 Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
