Hidden amongst the elegant Parisian streets stands Chapelle Saint-Philippe. This unassuming chapel holds a rich history. It replaced a smaller chapel. This older chapel was part of a leper hospital. The hospital was demolished in 1739. The area was becoming fashionable. King Louis XV desired a proper church for the community.
Jean-Francois Chalgrin designed the new church. Chalgrin was later famous for the Arc de Triomphe. He created a neoclassical design. The facade resembled a Roman temple. Construction lasted from 1774 to 1784. Chalgrin’s original plan included two bell towers. These were removed due to lack of funds.
During the French Revolution the church closed. The building was returned to the church in 1792. It became the parish church again in 1802. The neighborhood grew. The church required expansion. Etienne-Hippolyte Godde enlarged the church. He added a walkway with columns and a new chapel. This was in 1845. This design was based on early Christian churches in Rome. A lavish chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary was added.
Emile Hirsch added stained glass windows. The windows depict events in the lives of Saint Philip and Saint John. This was later in the 19th century. Francois-Joseph Duret created the sculpture on the pediment. It depicts Religion holding a chalice and a cross. The inscription dedicates the church to Saint Philip the Apostle.
The interior is formal. The nave and choir are ringed by columns. Colorful art provides a dramatic contrast. The ceiling is wood painted to look like stone. Theodore Chassériau painted the Descent of Christ from the Cross. This is the centerpiece of the church’s art. The painting’s colors and poses contrast with the formal architecture.
The Chapel of the Virgin is highly decorated. Paintings and sculptures illustrate the life of the Virgin Mary. Claudius Jacquand painted scenes from the Virgin’s life. He also painted Christ crowning the Virgin. Charles-François Lebœuf Nanteuil sculpted the Virgin Mary and child statue. This statue is called Our Lady of All the Graces.
The Chapelle Saint-Philippe is more than a building. It is a testament to faith. It reflects the evolving religious and artistic styles of Paris. Its history is rich. Its beauty is captivating. Remember the story of Chapelle Saint-Philippe as you explore Paris.