Église Saint-Suplice, Paris

Nestled back in the VIe arrondissement is the magnificent Baroque church dedicated to Saint Sulpitius.  Construction continued off and on for a century and a half, and extensive repairs are presently underway, both inside and out.  The double row of Ionic columns frankly seem out of place and were the last to be added.  I visited this church, arriving for the final 15 minutes of the worship service.  There were no seats to be had, even though hundreds had been put in place.  Priests mingled with the faithful afterward, families were well-dressed, and the organist's improvising was not to be missed.

Let's begin by walking through the columns in the Ionic style as we approach the front door.

Typically, an additional doorway is added in order to keep the interior of the church at a more comfortable temperature.  Some of these later additions are modest; this one had interesting stained glass windows.

 The faithful arriving late had to stand for the service at the far back because the nave was filled to capacity.

 

I enjoyed watching people leave.

 

 

As noon became afternoon, individuals came (from work?) to light a candle and reflect.

 

This is the vaulted ceiling of the nave, with the massive organ at the west end.

 

This is the vaulted ceiling at the crossing.