“Did those towers always look like chocolate?” a child’s voice might ask, gazing upward at the facade of Maison Sainte-Anne. It’s a question that brings a smile to the faces of locals, as the church’s two prominent towers, nicknamed the “Chocolate Towers,” are a beloved feature of the Butte-aux-Cailles quarter. Maison Sainte-Anne is no ordinary church. Built between 1894 and 1912, it arose from the need to accommodate a booming population drawn to the area by the tapestry and dye industries. The architect, Prosper Bobin, chose a striking combination of Neo-Roman and Neo-Byzantine styles, reflecting the architectural trends of the time. But what truly sets Maison Sainte-Anne apart are its “Chocolate Towers.” Rumor has it that the Lombard family, known for their local enterprises, including the Meunier Chocolate factory, played a significant role in financing the towers’ construction. Though unconfirmed, the story stuck, forever linking the church with the sweet aroma of chocolate in the minds of Parisians. However, Maison Sainte-Anne holds more than architectural marvels. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a more modern treasure: the Art Deco stained glass windows installed in 1938. They cast a kaleidoscope of colors across the church’s interior, illuminating biblical narratives and abstract designs with their vibrant hues. These windows are the work of Charles Maumejean, a master craftsman whose artistry also graces the church’s mosaics.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to