Churches in Paris: Église Saint-Augustin de Paris

The Église Saint-Augustin de Paris is a large church located in the 8th arrondissment next to Rue Malesherbes.  The architectural style is a mixture of Romanesque and Italian Gothic elements.  

What makes Saint-Augustin unique is its location and construction.  Built in the 1860's, Saint-Augustin was placed at the end of a new avenue in the heart of Paris.  Baron Hausmann, who directed the rebuilding of much of central Paris during the 1850's and 1860's, wanted a majestic monument placed there to provide a grand vista from multiple directions--from the center of Paris and from the Arc de Triomphe.  A majestic church would serve  exactly that purpose.

The location was problematic because the lot was far too small to accommodate a large church built using traditional materials and methods.  Fortunately, iron construction had become commonplace by the 1860's.  So, Saint-Augustin could be built very tall without relying on flying buttresses to support the roof and walls of the building.  Also, the lot was triangular.  So, the church is very narrow at the entrance and far wider at the opposite end.  

The church was intended to house the tombs of Emperor Napoleon III and his wife.  Unfortunately, he lost the Franco-Prussian war and died in exile in England where he is buried.  

Below is a photographic tour of Église Saint-Augustin de Paris.

Below is a diagram of the Saint-Augustin, which depicts its compact, triangular footprint.

Below, you can see the iron ribs of the church's frame along the walls and ceiling.  Fortunately, the ironwork was decorated to provide an ornate atmosphere, instead of an industrial one.

The church has many decorative elements, including stained-glass windows, a large baldachin over the altar and some statues. 

Saint Augustine of Hippo

Saint Roch and his faithful companion

Thanks for visiting Église Saint-Augustin de Paris with us.