The Basilica of Saint Denis

The Basilica of Saint Denis

All France’s kings (except three) are buried in the Basilica of Saint-Denis, a one-day march from Paris. As well, it is the first example of Gothic architecture.

The site is awe-inspiring and the funerary sculptures, which stretch over centuries, are varied and splendid. Some carry a message: why do the deceased recline with their eyes wide open?

The Basilica of Saint Denis is an excellent family visit, because of the stories connected with the tombs, because of a sculpture of the martyr holding his outsize head, and because children love stepping out of the car onto the site of a medieval fair ground, which a huge, raucous market occupies now.