Inclusions
Chapelle Expiatoire stands on the very spot where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were first buried after their executions. Quietly nestled behind the bustle of modern Paris, this solemn memorial offers a rare, intimate connection to one of France’s most turbulent chapters.
Commissioned by Louis XVIII as a tribute to his brother and sister-in-law, the chapel is rich in symbolism. Inside, statues of the King and Queen are paired with inscriptions that reflect their final words—offering a deeply human perspective on the Revolution’s cost.
Before the chapel, this was the Madeleine Cemetery—where guillotine victims were buried during the Revolution. It was also the burial site of victims from a tragic stampede during the royal wedding celebrations years earlier. Few sites in Paris hold such layered meaning.
Its neoclassical design is both elegant and reflective, with a central dome, oculi that invite natural light, and a peaceful layout that encourages contemplation. It’s not just architecture—it’s atmosphere.
Inside the chapel stand two poignant marble statues: Louis XVI being led to heaven by an angel, and Marie Antoinette in prayer. These works by Bosio and Cortot are not only artistic tributes but also bear engravings of the King’s will and the Queen’s final letter—personal artifacts turned into stone.
Address: Square Louis XVI, 29, rue Pasquier, 75008 Paris
There are no restaurants inside the Chapelle Expiatoire. However, there are a few dining options available at a walking distance:
Yes, the Expiatory Chapel is considered a hidden gem and is rarely crowded. Visitors often report no queues and only a handful of people inside, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet and contemplative experience.
Yes, the crypt is accessible via stairs at the back of the side chapels and is included with your standard admission ticket.
Most visitors spend less than an hour at the chapel. Its compact size and focused exhibits make it suitable for a brief but meaningful visit, especially if you are in the area or interested in French history.
Yes, visitors cross a simple but beautiful burial ground and garden-often filled with white roses-before entering the chapel. This tranquil outdoor space is part of the experience and is included in your ticket.
The chapel is somewhat hidden, nestled in a quiet square off Rue Pasquier, about a ten-minute walk from Église Madeleine. Even locals and taxi drivers may not be familiar with its exact location, so using a map or GPS is recommended.
The focus is on permanent memorials and historical context, with no regular temporary exhibitions. The experience is centered on the original artifacts, statues, and the crypt.
The chapel is a ten-minute walk from Église Madeleine and located near Boulevard Haussmann, making it easy to combine with shopping or other sightseeing in the 8th arrondissement.
