On Wednesday we were finally able to go to the Conciergerie on Ile de la Cite. The Conciergerie was part of the original palace in Paris from the 10th to the 14th century and then like many things in Paris, it was turned into a Prison during the Revolution. It was here that many, including Marie Antoinette, were held and tried prior to their death by the guillotine.
Connected to the Conciergerie is the fairy tale Sainte Chapelle Chapel. It was built in the 13th century to house the crown of thorns brought back from the crusades and amazingly, 70% of the stained glass in original.
To reach the chapel, you climb these dangerous, narrow spiral stairs...they are just so medieval!
Since part of the structure was under construction, I wasn't able to get a full shot of the chapel, but this is what it looks like in all its glory:
Amazing, right?
I just love the ceilings and all of the intricate details...
After some delicious Berthillon ice cream (seriously so yummy!), we were off to the Louvre! 
I have heard many different accounts on the Louvre and whether or not it is worth the hassle of visiting (the lines can be epic). Surprisingly, this was the shortest line for an art museum that we visited! We picked up tickets at a FNAC store (kind of like a Best Buy), planned on visiting on a day that it is open late, walked right in, and saw all of the famous pieces without any trouble or lines!
Venus de Milo
Ramesses II
Madonna of the Rocks by Leonardo da Vinci
(actually my favorite piece by da Vinci)
Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci
Cupid and Psyche by Antonio Canava
Now we just need to watch The Da Vinci Code!
After several hours enjoying the art, but mostly the ancient antiquities from Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Mesopotamia we took a nice nap right here next to the fountain before heading to Louise Cafe for one of our favorite meals!
I don't care what some people say, the Louvre was amazing!
No comments:
Post a Comment