The Basilica Cathedral is mosty known as the burial place of French kings and queens. And that is certainly worth seeing! More...

But the cathedral itself merits some attention too. It is considered the first example of early Gothic architecture, which became so associated with France.

It owes its style to the Abbot Suger, who oversaw its construction in the first half of the 12th century. A confidant of King Louis VI and King Louis VII, Suger's efforts resulted in the dedication of St-Denis in 1144. (In contrast, construction of Notre-Dame de Paris began in 1163 was completed more than a century later, in 1272.)

Suger used what were at the time new architectural techniques, such as rose windows and cross-ribbed vaults. Several stained glass windows in the chevet (behind the alter) date from Suger's time. Others were replaced in the 19th century.

The cathedral facade includes a portrayal of St-Denis, arriving with his head in his hand.

Over the centuries, the cathedral underwent various reconstructions, and suffered during various wars and the French Revolution. It was restored in the 19th century by Viollet-le-Duc.

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