A monumental Roman Catholic parish church in Paris’s 20th arrondissement, Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix rises with exceptional height and length, counting among the capital’s largest sacred buildings.
At a glance
This parish church, dedicated to Our Lady of the Holy Cross, dominates the Ménilmontant neighbourhood with its commanding proportions. Built during the Second Empire’s urban expansion, it represents the ambitions of 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture in Paris.
History
Construction of Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix spanned from 1863 to 1880, a period of significant growth in Paris under Baron Haussmann’s urban renewal. The church served the spiritual needs of Ménilmontant’s expanding working-class population during the nineteenth century’s industrial transformation of the city.
What you see
The church’s most striking feature is its exceptional height and length, which distinguish it among Parisian churches of its era. The structure embodies the architectural confidence of the mid-to-late nineteenth century, with proportions designed to inspire and accommodate large congregations.
Cultural significance
Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix stands as a landmark of Second Empire urban development and religious architecture. Its scale reflects both the Church’s institutional power and the demographic growth of eastern Paris during industrialization.
Key facts
- Country: France
- City: Paris, 20th arrondissement
- Built: 1863–1880
- Coordinates: 48.86820556, 2.38685556
Practical information & getting there
The church is located in Ménilmontant, accessible via Paris’s public transport network. For current visiting hours and any special services, contact the parish directly.
Sources & resources
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