Basilica of St-Denis (Paris)

"... if you are reaching the dog cemetery level of offbeat excursions ..." -- Hah! Yup, I've reached that level. :-)

Thanks, all! I've just realized that I must sound quite morbid, choosing between dead dogs and dead royals!

It would be a time-killer at best. Area is safe, so's the metro. If I were on my 100th day in Paris and had nothing better to do, I'd go see it...... maybe.

For the official basilica Web site, go here.

It's one of the earliest Gothic cathedrals in France and also the necropolis of all but three Kings of France, and other royalty. It's a beautiful church and well worth the time, in my opinion. It's an easy Metro ride there and back. I was there last week and thoroughly enjoyed the time.

Here's a link to a blog post about St. Denis (and two other churches in Paris).
http://cynwritesadventureinfrance.blogspot.com/2010/04/tale-of-two-churches.html

On our last trip to Paris we went to see the Basilia of St-Denis. I had read a lot about it in other guide books and online sights since Rick Steves doesn't cover it. My husband and I both thought it was extremely interesting and well worth the Metro time. There were no safety issues in the neighborhood, which had a large market going right outside the cathedral the day we were there.

I think it is interesting and worth a visit, especially if you are interested in France's royal history. The legend is that here is where St. Denis laid his head after carrying it from Montmartre. There has been a church building on the site since the 400s (if I recall correctly) and there are excavations in the crypt showing the expansion of the church. Most of the French kings and queens (or at least their vital organs) are entombed there, and there are AMAZINGLY detailed statues of them. I had vivid memories of visiting during my college semester in France, and went there with my husband and in-laws last fall. If you don't make it for a guided tour, I'd advise it is worth renting the audioguides for all the information.

Agreed, it is not a site that is on everyone's "my first trip to Paris" list but if you are reaching the dog cemetery level of offbeat excursions and you are interested in French royal history, I highly recommend it. The metro ride is perfectly safe and it is easy to find the basilica from the metro.

I found the Basilica at St. Denis quite interesting and while we were there Radio France was recording a concert in the Basilica, so that was an added bonus. Another bonus was a restaurant right near the Market Hall, where we had an excellent lunch. To add to all that, on the walk from the metro to the Basilica we discovered a discount perfume & cosmetic shop. Food, music, perfume and royal tombs ... the perfect day.

I also enjoyed the Basilica.

Remember Rick covers what he finds worthwhile. There's nothing wrong with that, that's what all guidebook writers do. I generally use several guidebooks and then go with my 'instincts' on what I will like.

I figured Rick doesn't cover it because it's not exactly central, but it's not a true out-of-town thing like Versailles.

You might find some people turning their nose up because bits of Saint-Denis have a very bad rep: ignore them, the central part around the Basilica is fine.