Église du Bon Pasteur

Why would a church be built underground? Here at 177 rue de Charonne, nestled amongst the lively streets of the 11th arrondissement, you’ll find the Église du Bon Pasteur. And it’s not your typical church. The current structure, completed in 1972, is a marvel of modern architecture. Designed by Bernard Casnin, it’s built into the ground, with light filtering in through unique skylights. But the story of Église du Bon Pasteur goes back much further. The original church, built in 1873, served a community of Flemish immigrants who came to work in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine. The neighborhood was still recovering from the upheaval of the Paris Commune, and these skilled artisans were vital to rebuilding the city’s furniture industry. They brought with them not only their craft but also their faith. The original church, designed in the Neo-Gothic style, stood as a symbol of their heritage for almost a century. But time took its toll, and by the 1960s, the building was in dire need of repair. It was then that a bold decision was made. Rather than simply restoring the old church, they decided to create something entirely new: a space that combined housing, community facilities, and a place of worship. This radical vision led to the unique underground church we see today. So as you stand here, remember that the Église du Bon Pasteur isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a testament to resilience, community, and the evolving face of Paris.