Hidden away in a courtyard of the Palais de Justice on Ile de la Cite, this medieval church, constructed by Louis IX (St. Louis) in 1248, stands like a jewel, with its Gothic architecture and stunning stained-glass windows that are best appreciated in the early afternoon sun. There are two levels to the church—the upper chapel, which was reserved for the royal family, has a massive vaulted ceiling and decorations of the apostles on its columns. The lower chapel is dedicated to the Virgin Mary with fleur-de-lis columns. The church is often used as a site for classical-music recitals. Daily 9:30 am-6 pm March-October, 10 am-5 pm November-February (last entry 30 minutes before closing). 7.50 euros adults. 4 Blvd. du Palais (1st, Metro Cite), Paris. Phone 01-5373-7851 or 01-5340-6097. http://sainte-chapelle.monuments-nationaux.fr/en.
