Church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, a Small Gem in the Heart of Paris

Nestled in a picturesque corner of the 5th arrondissement of Paris, under the shadow of Notre Dame Cathedral, St.-Julien-le-Pauvre, a  Melkite Greek Catholic church  is one of my favorite Parisian churches. As soon as you walk in you feel transported to a prior century and enveloped in its warmth, whether that's due to its small size or the glow of its soft light, it welcomes you.

History

The current building replaced a 6th century chapel which served as a hospice for pilgrims. It is named for Julian of Le Mans, who lived during the third century and who dedicated his life to helping the poor. The church as we know it now was built in stages between the 12th and 19th centuries. Initial construction began in 1165 under King Louis VII also known as King Louis the Younger who founded the University of Paris and Notre Dame Cathedral. With Notre Dame, it is one of the few churches built at that time that still exists in Paris. Construction began in the Romanesque style but most of its architecture is Gothic.

For about 300 years, its parishioners were students and scholars at the nearby Sorbonne University, including Thomas Aquinas and Dante. During the French Revolution, the church, like most other churches, was closed for worship and turned into a salt storage repository.

It was finally returned to the Catholic church in 1826, however in 1889 the church was turned over to the Melkite Greek Catholic Church and remains a part of the Eastern Orthodox church today.

The Interior

If you visit Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, you'll notice the Gothic influence in the columns and pointed arches. The columns are beautifully carved, and one is decorated with sculptures of harpies, half woman and half mythical bird.

Carved statue of the Virgin Mary

However, elements of the Byzantine influence are evident in the beautiful icons and other carvings.

There are lovely stained glass windows in the church.

Saint Julien le Pauvre

The church hosts concerts throughout the year. The acoustics are wonderful!

The Exterior

View of the chevet containing the apse at the eastern end of the church.

This is a bas-relief of Saint Julien which is now located at 42 rue Galande around the corner.

Around the Church

As mentioned, Saint-Julien is located in a charming area of the 5th arrondissement. Adjacent to it is the Square René Viviani, which boasts the oldest tree in Paris.

Notre Dame Cathedral as seen from the square.

The famous Shakespeare and Company a few yards to the north. Notice the beautiful Wallace Fountain in front.

This is probably my favorite corner in all of Paris, just outside the church.

Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre is well worth your time when you're in the neighborhood!

➜ Top Tips

• The sign on Odette pictured above says, "Les Meilleurs Choux à la Crême de Paris" (The Best Choux à la Crême in Paris). While I haven't tasted all of them, I can attest to the fact that they're excellent! Stop by when you're there.

• Also rest in the Square René Viviani enjoying the ambiance and gazing upon Notre Dame.

• If you can, attend a concert in the church. You won't be disappointed.