Amidst the vibrant energy of Paris’ 10th arrondissement, the Église Saint-Laurent stands as a testament to centuries of history. This church, located on Boulevard de Magenta, has witnessed the ebb and flow of Parisian life since its humble beginnings in the late 5th century. Initially a modest structure outside the city walls, it served as a sanctuary for pilgrims journeying to the Abbey of Saint-Denis. The Église Saint-Laurent and its surrounding monastery were tragically destroyed by Norman invaders in 885. A new church arose in 1180, only to be replaced by the current structure, whose choir was consecrated in 1429. The Église Saint-Laurent’s architecture reflects the flamboyant Gothic style popular during that era.
The Église Saint-Laurent’s story continued to unfold during the 17th century. While the nave remained incomplete and the facade yet to be built, two distinct architectural styles were employed. The nave was finished in the original Gothic design, while the facade embraced the then-fashionable classicism. This facade, similar to those of Sainte-Élisabeth-de-Hongrie or Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais, was later demolished in 1862. The 17th century also witnessed interior renovations, incorporating sculptures, pilasters, a high altar, and a retable reminiscent of a Roman triumphal arch. The church’s connection to Saint Vincent de Paul and Saint Louise de Marillac adds another layer to its rich history. Saint Vincent de Paul served as the church’s parish priest from 1632. Saint Louise de Marillac, whose body was interred at Église Saint-Laurent from 1660 to 1755, co-founded the Daughters of Charity with Saint Vincent de Paul. They established the order in the Saint-Laurent parish around 1641, dedicating themselves to serving foundlings and the sick.
The sweeping urban transformations undertaken by Baron Haussmann during the Second French Empire brought further changes to the Église Saint-Laurent. With the creation of the Boulevards de Strasbourg and Magenta, the church’s facade was found to be set back from the new street alignment. Architect Simon-Claude Constant-Dufeux spearheaded the renovations between 1863 and 1867. He extended the nave, crafted a neo-Gothic facade adorned with sculptures, and added a lead spire. The lava enamel pediment, also found at Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, was added in 1870 by the painter Paul Balze.
Inside, the Église Saint-Laurent showcases a stunning collection of stained glass. These windows trace the evolution of French stained glass art from the 1850s onwards. The earlier windows, primarily clear or with geometric designs, were replaced by more elaborate works. The church also holds a grand organ from 1685. The organ, crafted by François Ducastel and his son, has undergone various modifications and restorations over the years, enhancing the beauty of the church’s liturgies and concerts. From its medieval origins to its modern-day role as a spiritual haven amidst a bustling neighborhood, the Église Saint-Laurent continues to captivate and inspire.