Built between 1914 and 1926 the Paroisse Saint-Francois-d’Assise stands proudly in Paris’s 19th arrondissement. Its Neo-Italian-Romanesque style echoes the churches of Umbria Saint Francis’s birthplace. This wasn’t just any church. It commemorated the 700th anniversary of the Third Order of Saint Francis.
The story of the Paroisse Saint-Francois-d’Assise is one of perseverance and faith. Construction began in 1914. The First World War interrupted the project. The brothers Paul and Augustin Courcoux architects carried on. Augustin completed the church after his brother’s death. The exterior is understated elegant. It’s a study in simplicity. Yet the interior bursts with vibrant colours. Beautiful stained glass windows mosaics and paintings adorn the space.
Imagine the artisans painstakingly creating the stunning Byzantine-style mosaic in the choir. It depicts Christ on the cross. The Virgin Mary and John the Apostle surround him. Saint Francis receiving the stigmata kneels at his feet. A woman in black represents the Franciscans’ commitment to helping the poor. Other venerated figures Saint Claire Saint Bonaventure Saint Louis and Saint Elisabeth of Hungary complete the scene. The Maison Maumejean crafted this masterpiece.
The main altar too is adorned with mosaics. Peacocks symbols of resurrection grace the tabernacle’s sides. The nave’s cement ceiling imitates the wooden ceilings of older churches. Its dark brown colour contrasts beautifully with the bright white arcades and walls. Light floods the upper church through largely clear windows. The chapels and outer aisles however showcase the pictorial windows of various saints.
In 2007 Bernard Cogez built a modern organ for the church. It stands in the tribune above the portal. Its sound echoes the style of Baroque organs. It can play a wide range of modern repertoire. Works by Olivier Messiaen linked to Saint Francis have been played there.
The Paroisse Saint-Francois-d’Assise is more than a building. It’s a testament to faith resilience and artistic beauty. It’s a place where history art and spirituality beautifully intertwine. A place of quiet contemplation and vibrant celebration. A true gem in the heart of Paris.