Église de Saint-Antoine de Padoue

Did you know that this beautiful church, the Église de Saint-Antoine de Padoue, was built specifically for the workers in the Plaisance neighborhood? The story begins in the 1920s when Father Mortier, the priest of the Saint Francis of Assisi Chapel in Vanves, started visiting the families in the area. The chapel soon became too small, so Cardinal Verdier, the Archbishop of Paris at the time, decided to build a new church. The church was designed by the architect Léon Azéma and is an example of Franciscan architecture. Its simple lines, clean decorations, and the use of red bricks remind us of the humble life of Saint Francis of Assisi. The church was built between 1933 and 1935. The foundation stone was laid on June 11, 1933. The church was blessed on September 29, 1935, and Father Mortier became the first priest. Look at the statues of the four saints that adorn the top of the tower. They are Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Claire, Saint Louis, and Saint Elizabeth of Hungary. If you look at the artwork inside the Église de Saint-Antoine de Padoue, you’ll be met with a beautiful fresco by Jean Bernard in the choir that depicts the Christ’s death. The church also has 10 stained glass windows that depict scenes from the life of Christ, designed by Robert Pougheon and realized by the master glassmaker Louis Barillet. Saint Antony’s devotion is still felt in this beautiful church. This church is well worth a visit so you can appreciate its architecture and the stories it holds.