saint jacques tour paris

The Tour Saint-Jacques: An Enigmatic Treasure in Central Paris

Last Updated on August 24, 2023

During my early years living in Paris, I passed a nondescript construction site in the city center on a semi-daily basis. Clad with scaffolding and dark plastic sheeting, the site just off the Rue de Rivoli struck me as a bit of an eyesore on one of Paris’ busiest thoroughfares.

Years passed, and I was never curious enough to ask what lay beneath the scaffolding, or why it was taking such a long time to complete what I assumed was the construction of an office building or something akin.

In 2008, this theory was proven wrong– scaffolding was removed from the top, and what appeared to be a Gothic-style tower began to emerge, as if greeting the sky.

Then one morning in 2009, I was riding a bus that stopped just across the street from the gated square where the site stood. Stepping off the bus, I looked up to see this — and practically felt my jaw slacken with awe:

There was something revelatory about this– in the literal sense that the site was suddenly revealed in all its stupefying, unexpected beauty. Mostly hidden from view for years, the 16th-century Tour Saint-Jacques was back. And it was glorious.

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A Bit of History

If you find yourself wondering whether the dramatic tower was once attached to a church, congrats– you clearly know your pre-modern French architecture. Completed in around 1523, the Tour Saint-Jacques is all that remains of a medieval church called Eglise Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie, which was unfortunately destroyed in 1797 during the turbulent years of the French Revolution.

{Related: Bastille Day Once Celebrated the Restoration Monarchy, & Other Bizarre Facts}

The church, itself constructed from the 12th century, was an important pilgrimage site in Paris for Catholics, and a stop on the famous Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle pilgrimage route which leads south through France into Spain.

The tower was designed in a flamboyant Gothic style, as evidenced by features such as pointed, tapering pinnacles and carved niches decorated with statues, gargoyles and other elements.

Its sumptuous decor is attributed in part to the patronage of wealthy butchers who operated nearby in the enormous Les Halles market, and for whom the church was named.

Incidentally, one of the patrons of the original church is said to be Nicolas Flamel, the reputed alchemist, who operated an almshouse nearby.

After the church was destroyed and pillaged in the Revolution, it was used for a time as a stone quarry. The French state acquired the tower in 1836, declaring it a historic monument in the 1860s.

Second Empire Restoration Efforts

It was only during the Second Empire that major restoration efforts brought the tower back to its original, opulent guise. An architect named Théodore Ballu headed the redesign, creating a 19th-century style square and park around it and setting the tower on a pedestal. Statues, gargoyles, and other Gothic elements were also restored or entirely replaced.

{Take A Self-Guided Tour of Medieval Paris}

This was all happening during a time when Paris was being radically transformed from its medieval layout, with narrow, cobbled streets giving way to grand, wide boulevards .

So the renewal of the late-medieval Tour Saint-Jacques meant, somewhat paradoxically, that it became a key part of the city center in a new, bold, Belle-Epoque Paris that looked radically different from the city of earlier centuries.

The tower was again restored in the first decade of the 2000s after major cracks in the stone– much of it original– were discovered. In 1998, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks in part to its confirmation as a historic stop along the Santiago de Compostela (Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle) pilgrimage route. Relics for the Saint were discovered inside the tower, firming up the connection.

Visiting the Tower & What to See

Admiring the facade from the leafy square is something I highly recommend– and it only takes a few minutes. Better yet, have a picnic of bakery goods or take-out and enjoy lunch on one of the benches on the square, taking in the tower’s details as you eat.

The base of the tower , perched on a pedestal with stairs, features ornately carved arch structures, statues and small gargoyles. A statue of the French mathemetician and physicist Blaise Pascal stands within the arch structure, built to commemorate his experiments on atmospheric pressure.

They were either carried out here or nearby, according to conflicting accounts.

{Related: The Best Places for Picnics in Paris}

At the northwest corner, admire the biblical sculptures of the Four Evangelists (lion, bull, eagle, and man)– these are replicas rather than the originals, restored during the 19th century. The gargoyles and statues of saints adorning the walls of the tower are also replicas.

There’s also a statue of Saint Jacques le Majeur that stands on a platform. A tiny meteorological station was built here in 1891 by the Observatoire de Montsouris, a still-operating Observatory close to Montparnasse in southern Paris.

Guided Tours & Climbing the Tower

If you wish to climb the tower, you can do so via guided tour only (via an agency called MagmaCultura), available exclusively by reserving online here. The tour retraces the history of the former bell tower of the Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie church.

You can find current prices at the ticketing website above. The Tower is open to visitors every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until 13 November, from 10am to 6pm.

During the tour, you’ll have to ascend 300 narrow stairs to the top, where you can expect outstanding views over both Paris’ right bank and left . You’ll also get a closer look at some of the ornate statuary and other design details of the tower from your bird’s-eye vantage point.

If you’re claustrophobic or suffer from vertigo, you may wish to avoid, and anyone with heart or lung conditions should certainly abstain.

Getting There & Practical Information

The Tour Saint-Jacques is located smack in the Paris city center, in the area known as Châtelet and right on the border of the 1st and 4th arrondissements (districts). It’s situated in a pleasant, gated square named after it.

There’s plenty to see and do nearby, so this can be a quick stop in a morning of exploration: you’re minutes away from Parisian sights and attractions including the Centre Georges Pompidou , the Marais neighborhood, Hotel de Ville (City Hall) the Les Halles shopping center, and the Rue Montorgueil market district .

The Seine River and the Ile de la Cité (home to monuments including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie) are just blocks to the south.

• Address: Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques, 75001 (1st arrondissement)
• Metro: Châtelet, les Halles or Rambuteau

Courtney Traub is the Founder and Editor of Paris Unlocked. She’s a longtime Paris resident who now divides her time (as well as she can manage) between the French capital and Norwich, UK. Co-author of the 2012 Michelin Green Guide to Northern France & the Paris Region, she has been interviewed as an expert on Paris and France by the BBC, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Le Figaro, Matador Network and other publications. Courtney has also written and reported stories for media outlets including Radio France Internationale, The Christian Science Monitor, Women’s Wear Daily and The Associated Press. In addition to going down various rabbit holes of curiosity when it comes to French culture, history, food and art, Courtney is a scholar of literature and cultural history whose essays and reviews have appeared in various forums.

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How to Visit Châtelet’s Tour Saint-Jacques in Paris

If you want to begin your pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, begin at Châtelet and the Tour Saint-Jacques in Paris. Or skip the pilgrimage and let MagmaCultura help you discover the fabulous history of the tower and its uses through the centuries. A specialized guide leads you to one of the most beautiful, panoramic views of Paris! Along the journey up 300 steps, you will also visit a room with tower decoration fragments and a meteorology room that was in use until 2000.

MagmaCultura works with the City of Paris for the ticketing and guided tours. The Tower is open to visitors every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from the second weekend in June until the second weekend in November, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For group visits, school visits or visits in languages other than those offered online , write to [email protected] . For the English tour at 1 p.m., use the contact email address to request specific dates and times. In September, October and November a minimum of two per weekend are planned depending on the availability of the guides. The French tours run every hour between 10 a.m. and 6 pm.

To be sure of going up in the tower, reservations should be made online www.toursaintjacques.fr .  Tickets are for timed entry. There is a ticket kiosk at the foot of the Tour Saint-Jacques.  Full price is 12 euros and reduced price is 10 euros. The reduced price (for visitors under 18 and students) includes admission and the g uided tour. The tour lasts one hour. Access restrictions: People suffering from claustrophobia and vertigo. People with walking difficulties or heart problems, with visual, hearig or physical disabilities. You must be over 10 years old.

MagmaCultura agency’s tour retraces the history of this eleventh century vestige on the Right Bank ( Rive Droite ). The former bell tower of the Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie church has dominated the landscape of the Right Bank of the Seine for five centuries. The church was sold during the French Revolution and only the tower remains. Prior to the City of Paris’s purchase of the tower in 1836, it was  a bomb-making facility. The city turned it into an ornamental tower surrounded by a garden, which remains today.

More information from the City of Paris

City of Paris events Tour Saint-Jacques 

City of Paris Discover the view from the Tour Saint-Jacques  

A Little History Before You Go

I would highly recommend reading the history of the area before you take the tour. Read about the Grand Châtelet and Grand Boucherie (in French so needs a translation). Because of the smell, this area was outside the city walls. The butchers and fish mongers worked and cleaned and sold the meat and fish. The Seine was so close they could conveniently jettison the carcasses and innards to float away. This area was so filthy and unhygienic! What a difference a couple of centuries makes.

The church, Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie, originally finished in 1523, was dismantled stone-by-stone in 1793 and only the clock tower was allowed to remain. The tower was saved when a private individual persuaded the revolutionaries to save this unique piece of their heritage and history. They agreed as long as it was transferred into secular hands and out of the church’s possession.

The City of Paris bought and restored the tower of the former church, Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie, in 1836. It was renovated in 1858 to not look like a church bell tower.  The tower survived the Haussmannien period and became an ornament along the public thoroughfare of rue de Rivoli.

Wanting to have green spaces as in London, a park was made around the tower and a facing street was named in honor of Queen Victoria coinciding with her Paris visit. The tower of Saint-Jacques was used as a meteorological observatory from 1895 to 2000. For anyone that visited Paris after 2001, you would have seen the tower engulfed in scaffolding. The renovations were so extensive to match stone fragments and reinforce the foundation that work could not begin until 2006 and lasted until its reopening in 2013.

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The Saint-Jacques Tower in Paris: 16th-Century Marvel

A 16th-Century Tower in the City Center, Restored to its Former Glory

Courtney Traub.

The only remaining element of a church that once stood in central Paris and a former starting point for Christian pilgrimages southward, the St-Jacques Tower dates to the 16th century--  and recently underwent a dramatic restoration.

The belltower, which had become a public danger due to unstable stone elements, was hidden under heavy scaffolding for years before being unveiled in all of its revamped glory in early 2009. Since then, the tower has once again become a major feature of the landscape on Paris' central right bank ( rive droite ),  and for good reason: it tower boasts stunning stained glass and statuary and looks less like an orphaned remnant of a church than it does a standalone monument.

Read related: 4 Towers to Visit in Paris That Aren't the Eiffel 

Location & Getting There

Getting to the tower is quite easy since it's so centrally located, at the meeting point of many metro and bus stops. 

Address: Square de la tour Saint-Jacques, 88 rue de Rivoli, 4th arrondissement Metro: Chatelet or Hotel de Ville (Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14) (Buy Paris metro passes direct)

Tower Visiting Hours

The tower is accessible by reservation in advance only, as part of a guided tour. The 50-minute guided tours are available for individuals and groups at restricted times. Only 5 people are allowed up at a time.

The climb to the top is 300 steps (approximately 16 floors); you should abstain from attempting it if you suffer from vertigo or fear of closed spaces (claustrophobia). Visitors with limited mobility or heart problems are also discouraged should likewise exercise caution. Please also note that for safety reasons, children under 10 are not permitted to take the tour.

Reserving a Tour

To reserve a slot, call  +33 (0) 1 83 96 15 05 from 10 am to 1 pm on Wednesday, or visit the information desk at the tower to reserve on the same day or in advance. 

If you can't make one of the tours or don't like the idea of climbing the tower, the public square on which it stands affords good views and photo opportunities. The square is open daily during daylight hours and closes at dusk.

A Short History of the Tower: 

• The early 1500's: The 170-ft belltower is erected as part of the Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie Church. Although the church was built during the Renaissance, it's designed in the medieval gothic tradition. Christian pilgrims begin their journey along the Saint-Jacques de la Compostelle route here.
• 1793: The church is destroyed during the French Revolution. The remaining tower is pillaged and used as a stone quarry.
• 1836: The City of Paris acquires the tower, which becomes the centerpiece of one of the city's first public squares.
• 2006: The city undertakes an intensive restoration project on the tower.
• 2009: The fully restored tower is unveiled.

Read related feature: All About the Halles/Beaubourg Neighborhood

Tips for Visiting the Tower?

Unfortunately, as mentioned above, the tower isn't open to visitors without a tour reservation. Visit the square in the early morning or dusk hours for fantastic views of the dramatic tower from below (and photo ops of light hitting St Jacques-- a poetic sight by any standards).

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes. Walking 300 stairs up to the top in heels or flip-flops will not be a pleasant experience.  

If you're really hankering to see some dramatic architecture, consider heading over the river to the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral , or to the light-filled, sublime Sainte-Chapelle , featuring some of the medieval period's most intricate and beautiful stained glass. 

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Tour saint Jacques

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Tour saint Jacques Crédit photo : Flickr

La Tour Saint Jacques se situe en plein coeur de Paris, dans le 4ème arrondissement, non loin de la Mairie de Paris, du Louvre ou encore de Notre Dame . Cette tour de style gothique flamboyant se trouve actuellement dans un petit parc, à l'intersection des rues de Rivoli et Nicolas Flamel. La tour Saint-Jacques a été construite au XVIe siècle, plus précisément entre 1509 et 1523, comme partie d'une église dédiée à Saint Jacques le Majeur, le saint patron des pèlerins. Cette église connue sous le nom de l' église Saint Jacques de la boucherie était le point de départ pour le pèlerinage des Chrétiens qui allaient à Compostelle en Espagne. La tour était utilisée pour guider les pèlerins, car elle était, avec ses 54 mètres de hauteur, l'un des plus hauts points de Paris à l'époque. Au fil du temps, l'église a subi de nombreux changements et a finalement été démolie en 1797, pendant la Révolution française. La tour est la seule partie de l'église à échapper à la démolition. On raconte que la tour Saint-Jacques à Paris a survécu à la démolition en grande partie parce qu'elle était utilisée comme observatoire météorologique par l'Académie des sciences au 18e siècle. Mais cette relation à la science était plus profonde. En effet, en 1745, l'Académie a installé un instrument appelé "thermomètre à mercure" à l'intérieur de la tour pour mesurer la température de l'air. Cet instrument était le premier du genre à être utilisé en France pour mesurer la température. Plus tard, en 1774, Blaise Pascal, un scientifique français célèbre pour ses travaux en mathématiques et en physique, a effectué des expériences sur la pression atmosphérique à la Tour Saint-Jacques. Il a utilisé un baromètre pour mesurer la pression de l'air à différents niveaux de la tour, en montant et descendant l'escalier en colimaçon de la tour pour mesurer les changements de pression. Les travaux de Pascal sur la pression atmosphérique ont été essentiels pour la compréhension de la météorologie. Ils ont notamment conduit à des avancées dans d'autres domaines scientifiques. La Tour Saint-Jacques est donc un lieu important dans l'histoire de la météorologie et de la physique. Ainsi depuis 1891, le haut de la tour est devenu une station météorologique. Aujourd'hui encore, la tour est toujours utilisée pour des expériences scientifiques et des études météorologiques. Elle est équipée de capteurs modernes pour mesurer la température, la pression et d'autres données météorologiques, et elle sert de point de référence pour les mesures de la qualité de l'air à Paris. La tour a subi des restaurations majeures au fil des siècles pour la préserver, l'embellir et la maintenir debout. La première restauration majeure de la tour a eu lieu en 1836, après que des pierres de la tour se sont effritées et soient tombées sur la rue en dessous. La restauration a été supervisée par l'architecte Jean-Baptiste-Antoine Lassus, qui a remplacé les pierres endommagées et renforcé la structure de la tour. Il a également ajouté une statue de Saint Jacques, en bronze, au sommet de la tour pour remplacer l'ancienne statue en plomb qui avait été fondue pendant la Révolution française. En 1854, une deuxième restauration a été entreprise sous la direction de l'architecte Victor Baltard et de Théodore Ballu. Cette fois-ci, la tour a été entièrement démontée et reconstruite, avec l'ajout de nouveaux éléments architecturaux pour renforcer sa structure. La tour a également été surélevée de quelques mètres pour la rendre plus visible depuis les rues avoisinantes. Enfin, la dernière restauration majeure de la Tour Saint-Jacques a eu lieu en 2009. La tour a été restaurée à son état d'origine avec l'enlèvement des ajouts du XIXe siècle, tels que les contreforts et les balustrades, pour la rendre plus proche de son apparence d'origine. Cette restauration a également permis de renforcer la structure de la tour et de préserver sa longévité. Aujourd'hui, la Tour Saint-Jacques est un monument historique classé et est ouverte au public pour des visites guidées. Les visiteurs peuvent gravir les 300 marches en colimaçon pour admirer la vue imprenable sur Paris depuis le sommet de la tour. Le square de la Tour Saint Jacques attire aussi touristes et habitants du quartier par la beauté de ses plantations et l'élégance de ses pelouses, ce qui en fait un des plus beaux jardins publics de la capitale.

Questions - Réponses Tour saint Jacques

Qui a construit la tour saint jacques .

La Tour Saint-Jacques, située à Paris, est un monument isolé, reste d'une église du XVIe siècle, l'église Saint-Jacques-la-Boucherie, détruite après la Révolution française. Cette tour gothique de 52 mètres de hauteur était autrefois le point de départ des pèlerins se rendant à Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle. Dominant le square Saint-Jacques, elle est célèbre pour sa richesse décorative, ses statues, et son sommet offrant une vue panoramique sur Paris. Elle a été classée monument historique en 1862 et a subi plusieurs restaurations.

Quelles expériences ont été réalisées dans la tour Saint Jacques ?

La Tour Saint-Jacques à Paris a servi de cadre à d'importantes expériences scientifiques. Au XIXe siècle, le physicien français Léon Foucault y réalisa des expériences démontrant la rotation de la Terre. En 1851, il y suspendit son célèbre pendule, un dispositif simple mais ingénieux qui, en oscillant constamment dans le même plan, révélait le mouvement de rotation de la Terre sous lui. Ces expériences ont été cruciales pour la compréhension de la dynamique terrestre et restent un jalon majeur de la physique.

Quels sont les animaux emblématiques dela tour Saint Jacques ?

La Tour Saint-Jacques à Paris est ornée de sculptures d'animaux emblématiques, parmi lesquels les plus remarquables sont les dragons. Ces créatures mythiques, sculptées avec un souci du détail, symbolisent la protection et sont un motif récurrent dans l'architecture gothique. En outre, la tour présente des gargouilles, figures typiques de ce style architectural, conçues pour évacuer l'eau de pluie et représentant diverses formes animales fantastiques. Ces éléments sculpturaux ajoutent à l'aura mystique et historique de la tour, témoignant de l'art et de la culture médiévale.

Qui est la statue sous la Tour Saint Jacques ?

Sous la Tour Saint-Jacques à Paris se trouve une statue de Blaise Pascal, le célèbre mathématicien, physicien et philosophe français du XVIIe siècle. Cette statue rend hommage à ses expériences sur la pression atmosphérique réalisées en 1648. Pascal a utilisé la hauteur de la tour pour ses expériences sur le baromètre, démontrant ainsi les variations de pression de l'air avec l'altitude, une contribution majeure à la science de la physique et de la météorologie.

Peut-on visiter la Tour Saint Jacques ?

Oui, la Tour Saint-Jacques à Paris est ouverte au public pour des visites, mais avec certaines restrictions. L'accès est limité à des visites guidées, généralement disponibles pendant les mois d'été et organisées par l'Office du Tourisme de Paris. Les visiteurs peuvent monter les 300 marches pour atteindre le sommet, offrant une vue panoramique impressionnante sur la ville. Cependant, les places sont limitées et les billets doivent souvent être réservés à l'avance en raison de la forte demande.

Quelles sont les plus belles vues de Paris ?

Paris regorge de points de vue époustouflants. La Tour Saint-Jacques, avec son panorama unique sur le cœur historique de la ville, est un incontournable. La Tour Eiffel offre des vues emblématiques depuis ses plateformes d'observation. Le sommet de la Basilique du Sacré-Cœur à Montmartre révèle une perspective romantique sur Paris. L'Arc de Triomphe offre une vue magnifique sur les Champs-Élysées. Le Centre Pompidou se distingue avec sa vue moderne sur le Marais, tandis que la Tour Montparnasse offre une vue panoramique sur toute la ville, y compris la Tour Eiffel.

Tarifs Tour saint Jacques

12€ par personne

10€ pour les moins de 18 ans, les étudiants et les chômeurs

L'accès au sommet est interdit aux moins de 10 ans.

Billet Tour saint Jacques

A partir de la Tour Saint Jacques, découvrez le reste des monuments de Paris. Notre partenaire a regroupé ici une sélection de bons plans et de billets coupe files ainsi que des billets combinés pour vous permettre de les réserver à l'avance. Planifiez ainsi votre séjour parisien en toute tranquillité et retrouvez les billets directement sur votre téléphone portable.

Acces Tour saint Jacques

Comment aller à la tour saint jacques .

C'est grâce à la station Chatelet que vous pourrez vous rendre à la tour Saint Jacques. cette station est déservie par les lignes de métro 1, 4, 7, 11 et 14.

Horaires Tour saint Jacques

Quels sont les horaires d'ouvertire de la tour saint jacques .

La Tour Saint Jacques est ouverte du vendredi au dimanche de 10 heures à 17 heures entre mai et novembre. Il n'est pas possible de visiter la Tour le reste de l'année.

Contact Tour saint Jacques

Telephone : 01 83 96 15 05

Carte Tour saint Jacques

Adresse : Tour Saint Jacques, 39 Rue de Rivoli, 75004 Paris

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Description

Community facilities.

The last remaining vestige of the Church of Saint-Jacques-la-Boucherie , constructed in the 16th century and destroyed during the French Revolution , the St James Tower is an architectural gem of a flamboyant Gothic style . The starting point for the ancient pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, the church drew its name from its original location in Paris’ butchers guild district.

Major fashion brands have long replaced the butcher shops, and in their midst, the St James Tower represents a medieval incongruity well-deserving of a detour. At the foot of the tower, enjoy the garden in the small square built in 1856, and get a closer look at the impressive gargoyles and statues of saints , the delicate, stained glass windows and exquisitely carved patterns decorating the façade of the tower. Have fun finding the hidden symbols of the four Evangelists .

Secrets and mysteries of the Tour Saint-Jacques

Numerous legends have shaped the tower’s mysterious allure over the centuries, and every year from May to November the company, MagmaCultura , shares some of those secrets in guided tours of this memento of medieval Paris.

Give it your all, and climb to the top of the tower’s 300 steps ! From its summit, 54 meters above ground, Paris spreads out before you, offering an unrestricted panorama taking in the Sacré-Coeur , the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame .

Discover the Tour Saint-Jacques through one of the treasure hunts in the Paris Region Adventures application specially designed for families and downloadable free of charge.

Access and contact

• https://www.paris.fr/

Days and opening hours

All year round, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 10 am and 5 pm. The Tower is open from May to November.

Spoken languages

• Copyright image:
• Capelle Tourn / Ooshot / CRT Paris Ile-de-France

Expired session

Discovering the Tour Saint-Jacques

Many people, tourists and Parisians alike, do not know the history of La Tour Saint-Jacques (St. James Tower in English). Perhaps because it only reopened in 2009 after a restoration that took almost 10 years. Even I, who have walked by it many times, only knew that it was the vestige of an old church.

Well, one of my resolutions was to discover the lonely Tour Saint-Jaques, so I’ll be sharing a summary of its history and what you should know if you want to visit it, plus a couple of fun facts as per usual!

HISTORY OF THE TOUR SAINT-JAQUES

To understand the history of the Tour Saint-Jacques, we must go back to the Paris that was surrounded by a medieval wall. The Company of Butchers (yes, nothing glamorous but very powerful, like the Company of Merchants that founded the Hôtel de Ville), settled outside the great market that was Châtelet. It is said that they had a lot of money and had a church built in honor of St. James the Great, on the remains of a temple found there and dating far back (there are even legends that speak of the time of Charlemagne).

Years later, the church was bought and dismantled on condition that the tower was preserved. It was later acquired by an industrialist to create a foundry for lead bullets for hunting. The height of the tower was sufficient for the falling lead drops to cool when they reached the bottom (50 meters high).

After two fires, the Tower was bought by the Mayor of Paris, and around 1852, when the excavation works of the Rue de Rivoli began, it was decided this place would be restored. This was largely financed by Nicolas Flamel, a French bourgeois millionaire, and even has his initials on the stained glass windows, as well as those of the architect Théodore Ballu.

The Tour Saint-Jacques bell tower is thus the only vestige of the Saint-Jacques-La-Boucherie church, which was built in honor of Saint James the Great. Its current decoration, in flamboyant Gothic style, is the result of another restoration process initiated by Napoleon III.

It was finally restored again between 2001 and 2009 and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and the “Camino de Compostela”.

A TOWER FULL OF LEGENDS

Two legends caught my attention about this tower. The first is that it is said that during the Revolution the Saint-Jacques Tower was not demolished because Blaise Pascal (the famous mathematician and physicist) had resumed there his experiments on atmospheric pressure. This legend is false, because Pascal carried out these experiments in the Saint-Jacques-du-Haut-Pas church located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris.

The other is that Nicolas Flamel (who financed the restoration of the tower along with his wife, and of whom there is a representation in the north portal), was said to be an alchemist, who turned metals into gold having found the Philosopher’s Stone. Harry Potter fans will surely be interested! Well, it turns out that Flamel was very wealthy because he had had a prosperous career and because he married a wealthy widow. Certainly an interesting way to turn metal into gold.

HOW TO VISIT THE TOUR SAINT-JACQUES

Currently the Ville de Paris has handed over the organization of the tours of the Tour Saint-Jacques to the agency “Des Mots et des Arts”, a Parisian agency, which organizes workshops, guided tours and thematic tours (very interesting for history fans).

The tours are mainly in French, but also in English. If you feel like it, and do not have knee problems, heart or claustrophobia, you can easily book your visit on the website of the agency in charge and access this unique place. Entry is only available during the summer starting at 10€ and it is strictly forbidden for children under 10 years old and babies.

You must book and pay online (the groups are small), the day of the visit arrive very punctual at the reception place (a small blue booth at the side of the park), the attendants will verify your registration, give you a ticket, and then the visit begins.

The introduction is at the base of the tower, and then the ascent beginsThe introduction is at the base of the tower, and then you start the ascent to a first level (50 steps to warm up your knees), then 70 more and finally the rest, for a total of 300 steps (it’s like climbing the Arc de Triomphe).

The view of Paris will leave you speechless.

Fun Fact 1:

The Place de la Tour Saint-Jacques was the first endowed and equipped square in Paris and was created in 1856 after the acquisition of the land by the City of Paris. This was part of the great transformations carried out in the city by Baron Haussmann, which sought to improve hygiene and circulation in the city center.

To get to the Place de la Tour Saint-Jacques (Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques) you can take Metro Lines 1, 4, 7, and 11 and get off at Châtelet (and walk 4 minutes) or Metro Lines 1 and 11 to Hôtel De Ville, and walk on Rue de Rivoli until you meet the square and the tower.

Fun Fact 2:

At the top of the Tower, you’ll find gargoyles, a large statue of St. James (standing) and 4 allegorical representations: The Lion (St. Mark), the Bull (St. Luke), the Angel (St. Matthew) and the Eagle (St. John). These statues are approximately 4 meters high and are accompanied by 18 statues of saints that decorate the sides of the tower.

So you know, if you come in summer and until November 3, you can take a guided tour of the Tour Saint-Jacques. Between 10:00 a.m. and 17h00 (5 p.m.) from Friday to Sunday. Tickets are available on the website Des Mots et Des Arts or directly at the ticket window (a little blue house on one side of the park). If you don’t want to worry about anything, you can ask us to design a personalized guide, where we can create an itinerary that fits your needs!

Paris is waiting for you.

A Brief History of the Tour Saint-Jacques in Paris

What is the tour saint-jacques.

The Tour Saint-Jacques, or saint-jacques tower in English, is an elaborate 16th-century Flamboyant Gothic tower in Paris that was a meeting point for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela.

Tour Saint-Jacques History

Legend has it that the body of Saint James, one of Jesus’ Twelve Apostles, was carried in a stone boat from Jerusalem to the Galician coast in northern Spain. In the 9th century, his remains were discovered by a local shepherd, and a shrine was built in his honour in Santiago de Compostela.

For the past thousand years, Christian pilgrims have made the arduous journey from all over Europe to pay homage to Saint James’ shrine. Although now a standalone Flamboyant Gothic tower, there was once a church on this spot named after the revered Apostle, a rallying point for pilgrims on the road to northern Spain. The church itself, however, was known by the longer name Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie (or Saint James of the Butchers), after the many butchers who worked at the nearby market of Les Halles and were the wealthy patrons of the church.

Much of the building was destroyed during the French Revolution, and in 1797, the medieval church was sold to an entrepreneur who made no secret of his intention to demolish the structure. Fortunately, since the French government decided to indemnify the new owner for the material value of the building’s stonework, and included the building in a proposed list of eleven ‘historic monuments’, the tower was saved. Tour Saint-Jacques stands at an imposing 52 metres tall, and due to its shape was later converted into a shot tower, a structure used for making small shot balls for guns. This was done by allowing molten lead to pass through a sieve at the top of the tower, where it would fall down into a tub of water, cool and harden in the shape of a bullet.

Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie was the burial place of Nicolas Flamel, a 14th-century Parisian scribe who became a patron of the church. Some 200 years after his death, Flamel was the subject of a myth that alleged he had discovered the Philosopher’s Stone, which turned base metals into gold and silver, and enabled him and his wife to become immortal. If you recognize the name but are unfamiliar with the history, it may be due to the fact he has appeared in a number of works of fiction, most famously in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone , for obvious reasons.

The tower also has further philosophical connections. There’s a statue of the famous scientist and philosopher Blaise Pascal, which can be found at the base of the tower, who used it in the mid-17th century to conduct experiments on atmospheric pressure and the use of weights (before Isaac Newton discovered the laws of gravity).

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Sept choses à savoir sur la tour Saint-Jacques

Vestige d'une église, elle est le point de départ d'un célèbre pèlerinage

Blaise Pascal y a réalisé des expériences

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Tour Saint-Jacques

Tour Saint Jacques or Saint-Jacques Tower is a gothic bell tower that was built between 1509 and 1523. It was part of the church of Saint Jacques de la Boucherie (Saint James of the butchery). The naming was derived from the nearby Les Halles market where butchers heavily traded. Before its destruction the church and its iconic tower was popular, welcoming Pilgrims from all around who were readying for their long pilgrimage journeys. It was dedicated to Saint James the Great. The church of Saint Jacques de la Boucherie was built at around the same time as the tower, was a preferred initial destination of religious pilgrims who used to take pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. It was also the religious place for the butchers who were the patrons that inspired its creation. However, like most other churches, it met its downfall during the French Revolution. It was taken down, but the tower was spared. While it may have seemed that Tour Saint Jacques would be an incomplete establishment with its church missing, it was the exact opposite. As a stand alone monument, it was deemed complete, and worthy enough to be preserved. It was declared a national monument in 1862, exactly 26 years later after it was obtained by the City of Paris. In honor of the saint that the former church was consecrated for, a statue of Saint James was installed at the top of the tower. Tour Saint Jacques is a monument even in terms of size. At 52m tall, the tower is a colossal figure that is easily appreciated even from a distance. Its architecture is heavily gothic with a lot of ornamental detail. Stained glass is also used, like most creations of that age, though the windows are narrower, and therefore the beauty of the glass is not fully observable (In any case, for a real display of stained glass in all its glamour, there is the Sainte-Chapelle among others). At the base of the tower is a sculpture of the physicist Blaise Pascal who had a laboratory inside the tower. Tour Saint Jacques has been renovated more than once, with the first instance being in the 19th century. At this time, the tour was placed on a pedestal. This was because of the leveling that was going around at the time. With the pedestal installed, the tower’s height did not change, but the ground level was. A park was built around the tower, and it still exists even today. A second renovation was deemed necessary after it was investigated and found that the stone used to build it was not going to be permanent. The scaffolding was getting weak, and the stone was cracking. A modern renovation was commenced in 2006 and both the tower, and the park which was also renovated, were opened in 2009 to the public. The Tour Saint Jacques is one of the monuments that display gothic architecture at its best. It is richly decorated and located right in the center of Paris.

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Tour Saint-Jacques, the ancient bell tower with its sublime view over Paris, open from May to November

How about an incredible view of Paris ? Head for the top of the Tour Saint-Jacques , accessible only for part of the year, between May 18, 2023 and November 12, 2023 , to discover this medieval tower, built between 1509 and 1523, the starting point of the Compostelle pilgrimage. The rest of the year, it can only be admired from below, in the square of the same name.

The statue of Blaise Pascal stands in the middle of the square. History has it that he conducted barometric experiments here. The tower is designed in a Gothic style , with gargoyles and other ornamental moldings thanks to the particularly hard "liais" bench and the stone extracted from the Saint-Leu quarries in the Oise region. The Tour Saint-Jacques is in the heart of the capital , at the center of the commercial thoroughfares (rue Saint-Denis, rue Saint-Martin and rue des Ecrivains, now rue de Rivoli).

It's a place steeped in history , home to a lead shot factory from 1824 to 1836, and once the heart of a monumental church, Saint-Jacques-la-Boucherie , where Nicolas Flamel is buried. Since the 19th century, the tower has been the subject of numerous development projects by the city: in 1853, historian N.--M. Troche suggested transforming it into a clock, and Paris incorporated the Montsouris municipal meteorological observatory until 1898.

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Guided tours are offered by the MagmaCultura agency, in partnership with the City of Paris, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday to Sunday , by reservation only. Don't forget to bring your good shoes, as you'll need to climb 300 steps to earn this superb view of the capital. For this reason, access is forbidden to children under 10 and to people with heart problems. To get to the Tour Saint-Jacques, you can get off at Châtelet , on lines 4, 7, 14, 11 and 1, as well as RER lines A, B and D.

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Location La Tour Saint Jacques Square Saint-Jacques 75004 Paris 4

Prices -18ans, étudiants et chômeurs: €10 Tarif normal: €12

Recommended age From 12 to 80 years old

Average duration 1 h

Official website boutique.toursaintjacques.fr

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Tour Saint-Jacques

• Description

The Tour Saint-Jacques in Paris is a must-see for any traveler seeking a unique and historical experience. This Gothic-style tower, built in the 16th century, stands tall at 52 meters and offers breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can climb the 300 steps to the top, where they will be rewarded with panoramic views of Paris and its many landmarks. The tower’s intricate details and stunning architecture make it a true gem of Parisian history. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Tour Saint-Jacques and its stunning views on your next trip to Paris.

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Tour Saint-Jacques Overview

Visitor experience and accessibility, climbing the tower, park and surroundings, facilities and amenities, visitor information, tour scheduling and reservations, historical context and significance, saint-jacques-de-la-boucherie church, the french revolution impact, gothic architecture and restoration, scientific contributions of blaise pascal, historical figures, cultural and social impact, pilgrimage and religious importance, role in parisian urban development, art and mythology representations, literature and popular media references, tour saint-jacques in reviews and recommendations, user feedback and ratings, comparisons to other parisian landmarks, noteworthy first-time visitor tips, trust and safety considerations, tour saint-jacques reviews.

Tour Saint-Jacques stands as a solitary Gothic tower in Paris’s bustling 4th arrondissement. Initially part of the larger Eglise Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie , a 16th-century church demolished during the French Revolution, this landmark now serves as a historical beacon amidst the city’s modern vibrance. Your journey to this remarkable site begins near Châtelet , along the Rue de Rivoli .

The tower boasts intricately crafted stone architecture, revealing the grandeur of the medieval period and the skillfulness of its craftsmen. As you gaze upon Saint Jacques Tower, consider the alterations overseen by Baron Haussmann, whose visions for Paris led to the tower’s isolation from its original church body. The landmark, not merely an architectural marvel, holds significant historical relevance, standing tall as a testament to the city’s resilience.

Surrounded by a pleasant garden, the tower is particularly noticeable near the Hôtel de Ville . Despite the loss of the Eglise Saint Jacque De La Boucherie, the remaining tower retains the Gothic monument’s essence, a commanding example of the flamboyant Gothic style imbued with Parisian historical significance.

• Address: Paris, 4th arrondissement
• Closest Metro: Châtelet

When visiting, remember that Tour Saint-Jacques opens seasonally for guided tours, inviting you to climb the edifice for sweeping views of Paris. As you ascend, the stonework and the careful details in the tower’s design remind you of the dedication to artistry that defines historical French architecture.

Tour Saint-Jacques is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Paris, offering a rich blend of heritage and scenery. Ensuring a rewarding visit, this section provides essential details on what to expect from climbing the tower to planning your visit.

The journey to the top of Tour Saint-Jacques is a spectacle in itself. You should be prepared for a strenuous climb , as the tower features over 300 steps with no elevator. However, your exertion is rewarded with stunning views of Paris and an up-close encounter with the tower’s famed gargoyles . Keep in mind that the climb may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights.

Surrounding Tour Saint-Jacques is a charming park , Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques, where the atmosphere is relaxed, and the square’s cleanliness is well-maintained. Take a stroll or rest on a bench and admire the tower’s external statues and architecture, or enjoy the Seine River nearby. The park often has a festive atmosphere in the summer and includes a playground for children.

Basic facilities are provided for visitors. Toilets are available and are typically kept clean . However, there are no extensive amenities given the tower’s historical nature, so plan accordingly. For those interested, brochures may be available to enrich your visit with knowledge about the site’s history and architecture.

Essential location information is crucial for a hassle-free experience. Tour Saint-Jacques is situated in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. An English brochure detailing the tower’s history is a helpful resource if available during your visit, and you can look for informative signs around the park.

To visit the tower’s interior or bell tower, reservations are typically required. It’s important to book in advance, as the tours are conducted in small groups to preserve the site’s integrity. The tower is open for guided tours from Friday to Sunday . Always check the latest schedule and make reservations beforehand to secure your spot.

As you trace the cobbled streets of Paris, the Tour Saint-Jacques stands as a fascinating palimpsest of history, exhibiting layers of significance from religious, revolutionary, and scientific narratives.

Once part of the larger Church of Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie, the tower is the sole survivor of the Gothic structure dating back to 1523 . This church was an important meeting point for pilgrims on the Way of St. James, heading toward Spain.

Amid the turmoil of the French Revolution , the church was dismantled in 1797 , a decision emblematic of the era’s radical urban renewal. The tower withstood the destructive wave of revolutionary fervor, emerging as a solitary testament to Paris’s medieval past.

Exhibiting the flamboyant Gothic style, the tower underwent extensive renovation concluded in 2009 . The intricate stone tracery and breathtaking spire exemplify the architectural brilliance of the period under King Francis I.

Engraved in history, the tower is where Blaise Pascal conducted atmospheric pressure experiments in 1648 . His initiatives were foundational to the scientific community and commemorated with a statue of the mathematician positioned at the tower’s base.

Several historical figures are interwoven with the tower’s narrative. Notably, Nicolas Flamel, a famed alchemist, lived nearby, cementing the tower’s connection to the rich tapestry of Parisian legends and lore.

Tour Saint-Jacques, a monumental gothic tower in the heart of Paris, is more than a mere landmark. It stands as a testament to the city’s deep-seated religious traditions, urban metamorphosis, artistic inspirations, and its ubiquitous presence in literature and media. Each brick and sculpture tells a story, contributing to the rich cultural and social panorama of France’s capital.

Your journey through Paris is not complete without understanding Tour Saint-Jacques’ role as a beacon for pilgrims. This solitary tower was once part of the larger Église Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie and stood as a starting point for the Via Turonensis , one of the four main pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela . Revered as the symbol of Saint James the Greater , patron saint of pilgrims, it continues to resonate with those retracing the steps of countless voyagers before them.

Witness the tower’s significance in Paris’ cityscape evolution, particularly during Baron Haussmann’s sweeping 19th-century urban renewal. Embedded in the fabric of the 4th arrondissement , the tower survived Haussmann’s drastic renovations, which radically transformed the Châtelet area and broader city contours. Today, it punctuates the skyline, a steadfast reminder of a Paris once medieval, amidst the buzz of its modern-day avenues and public squares .

Adorned with statues of the Four Evangelists — the man, lion, eagle, and ox — and intricate gargoyles, Tour Saint-Jacques is a treasure trove of gothic art. Each statue stands as an allegory, with Saint Jacques le Majeur himself keeping watch from the base. These figures are not just decorative; they are steeped in the city’s collective memory, embodying Parisian artistic prowess and the mythology that underpins French culture.

As you peel through layers of Parisian lore, you find Tour Saint-Jacques deeply engraved in literature and popular culture. It’s woven into tales of the alchemist Nicolas Flamel and appears in various fictional works that traverse the centuries. Its cinematic silhouette adorns film and television, offering a backdrop that immediately announces “Paris” to viewers worldwide, while in literature, it serves as the silent witness to narratives dense with French ambiance.

As you navigate the wealth of traveler insights and local expertise, a narrative emerges, revealing Tour Saint-Jacques as a storied jewel among Parisian landmarks. The following insights and tips aim to enhance your visit and understanding of this Gothic treasure nestled in the heart of the 4th arrondissement.

Tripadvisor rates Tour Saint-Jacques highly, with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 450 reviews. Visitors frequently mention the landmark’s historical significance and stunning panoramic views. Here’s a snapshot of visitor sentiments:

• “A must-see for any traveler seeking a unique and historical experience in Paris .”
• Stunning views of the city, including landmarks like Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower .

Tour Saint-Jacques stands as a unique monument, distinct even within a city of renowned landmarks. Visitors often compare the intimate and intricate experience of Tour Saint-Jacques favorably to the vastness of the Eiffel Tower or the splendor of Notre Dame . Its proximity to the Seine River adds to its charm and underlines its historical significance in French heritage.

First-time visitors should note that the tower is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM , with last entry allowing enough time to fully enjoy the experience. Important tips include:

• Allocate sufficient time for the climb to enjoy the observation deck.
• Check weather conditions to ensure clarity for the best views of Paris .

The site upholds industry-leading trust & safety standards , ensuring a secure visit. Detailed reviews often commend the well-maintained structure and the care taken to provide information on the landmark’s history, making for an enriching French cultural experience.

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Tour Saint Jacques: The Gothic Remains of a 16th-Century Church

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 4th March 2023

Categories Paris

Last Updated on 4th March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Tour Saint Jacques sits, high and mighty above rue de Rivoli, imposing over the surrounding square and streets. All that remains of a medieval church which once stood in the district, the tower can be found on the fringes of Le Marais, a historic district known for its medieval architecture and winding lanes. Here’s a quick history of Tour Saint Jacques , as well as how to visit for yourself and things to know before you go.

A history of Tour Saint Jacques

Located within the grounds of a garden with the same name, Tour Saint Jacques is the solitary remainder of a once grand Gothic ecclesiastical building. The  church of Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie was so-called because it was funded by wealthy patrons of the Butcher’s guild of the nearby Les Halles food market.

Though today Les Halles is home to a large shopping centre, during the Medieval period, and right up until the 1970s, the market was the largest food market in Paris.

The flamboyant Gothic architecture of the Church of Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie was constructed between 1509 and 1523 and served the neighbourhood until the church was demolished during the French Revolution, leaving only the tower.

In times gone by, the church would have been one of the key Paris locations on the Tours branch of the pilgrimage on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela (Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle). Today, the tower is considered as a National Historic Landmark.

How to visit Tour Saint Jacques

Thanks to the fact that the tower rises up above the rest of the district, you can view the tower at all times of the day and night, rising up above the rest of the buildings along rue de Rivoli.

However, the actual park surrounding the tower, Square de la Tour Saint Jacques, is open from 8 AM – 8:30 PM Monday to Friday and Saturday 9 AM to 8:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the best of Paris (including views onto the River Seine, Notre Dame Cathedral, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower) , then you’ll be delighted to discover that you can actually ascend the medieval tower for a small fee. 

A guided accompanied tour takes place every hour from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Prices are €12 for the full adult price and €10 for concessions. Tours last for 40 minutes and you’ll be required to climb around 300 steps to reach the top of the tower.

Tours can be booked on the website of Des Mots et Des Arts and children under 10 are not allowed to visit. If you want to attend a tour for free, then you should know that Tour Saint-Jacques is free to visit during European Heritage Days, which are usually held during a weekend in mid- September .

Due to its enviable position in the heart of Le Marais district of Paris, there’s no shortage of things to see and do nearby.

As well as a quirky array of hidden gems that even many locals don’t know about, should you head to Le Marais, you’ll also find a large assortment of shopping experiences (including many a vintage shop) and eatery.

Enjoyed reading about how to visit Tour Saint Jacques? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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We take you behind the scenes of the Tour Saint-Jacques

Stéphane Bern and Lorant Deutsch just have to watch out. By being one of the first to visit the Tour Saint Jacques , which has just reopened its doors, you will soon be able to make a splash in the “ History of Paris ” category at an upcoming social dinner. In Paris this summer? This is certainly the best opportunity to discover this monument often poorly known to Parisians, a real journey back in time, to the 16th century exactly. Are we taking you?

A magical and highly secret tower

Do you know the Tour Saint-Jacques ? But if, you know, this immense tower perched on the rue de Rivoli decorated with grotesque gargoyles… We always wonder what its function is when we pass it. Do It In Paris explains everything to you.

As unreachable as Fort Boyard , the Tour Saint-Jacques is nevertheless in the epicenter of old Paris, a stone's throw from Châtelet and the Hôtel de Ville . With its flamboyant Gothic style, it dominates the 4th arrondissement from the rue de Rivoli where it has rested since the late Middle Ages. Long before housing the bell tower, the square of the square housed a beautiful heritage dating from the very first millennium with its share of bewitching stories. We won't tell you more...

Among the great stars of the Tower, we can mention in particular Blaise Pascal , who would have carried out experiments on air pressure there, but especially Nicolas Flamel and his philosopher's stone mentioned in Harry Potter . Legend has it that the medieval alchemist transformed metal into gold, especially in one of the rooms upstairs!

Getaway in medieval Paris

Once you arrive on the base where the foundations of the Tower rest, it is impossible not to feel taken by the medieval vibe: totally cut off from the rest of the modern world, you will quickly forget the traffic, thanks in particular to the fascinating explanations of the guide-historian .

The route starts with the (very) small wooden door which is only open for group visits. And off we go for 292 or even 297 climbing steps and a stone staircase leading to the three floors with balconies and a crazy view of the capital. Last stop before the crazy rooftop, Nicolas Flamel 's room remained intact. The roof turns out to be the real must-go of the whole visit, with a 360° panoramic view of Paris like you've never seen it before. Note: cloistered people, freaked out by the great void, heart patients and pregnant women refrain..

The extra thing: looking for a spot to channel unleashed teenagers, this is where it happens. With its -almost- 300 steps to climb, fascinating stories and a view that leaves you speechless, they will no longer have any excuse for not going to cultural venues. Rest in the evening for adults assured.

La Tour Saint-Jacques, visits from Friday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., until November 13. Tickets €12, reduced price €10 on reservation .  

Clara Caggini

Where to find it?

La tour saint jacques.

Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques

75004 Paris

boutique.toursaintjacques.fr

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A climb to the top of the Tour Saint-Jacques, Paris

Last Updated:  11 August 2022

Only a few people have been able to climb the  Tour Saint-Jacques , a single tower that rises in the centre of Paris . Many don’t even notice the monument as their paths lead them straight to famous landmarks in the vicinity: Notre-Dame , Sainte-Chapelle , the banks of River Seine … and the shopping precinct of rue de Rivoli. Here is a selection of photos taken during our ascent. At the end of the article, I’ll tell you how you can plan your ascent to the tower and enjoy breathtaking views over Paris!

What about Tour Saint-Jacques? 

Bearing witness to the past of the Right Bank, the Saint-Jacques Tower is a Parisian monument that cannot be overlooked. Since its full restoration in the 2000s, the former bell tower of a church which no longer exists has been opened to the public by its owner, the Municipality of Paris. We booked in advance and came to visit the inside and the top of the tower yesterday.

Situated in the neighbourhood of  Châtelet  in the  4th arrondissement of Paris, the curious Saint-Jacques Tower stands alone, surrounded by the trees and lawns of the Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques.

From the public garden, the Flamboyant Gothic features of the tower are clearly visible, particularly at the top of the tower:

To the top of the Tour Saint-Jacques

Please note! This account dates back to our last ascent to the tower in 2015. Since then, a few things have changed (a different tour agency, the great fire of Notre-Dame, etc.), which explained you might have only a slightly different experience.

We started our guided tour of the tower at the west side gate, where the friendly guide welcomed us. Around 12 people joined the group, and the visit started at 10 am at the base of the tower for a historical presentation of the tower.

By the statue of Blaise Pascal , the tour guide explained the troubled past of the former church of Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie and the destiny of its bell tower, which was saved from demolition during the French Revolution. Now we are ready for the ascent of 300 steps!

Following the presentation, we climbed a short flight of spiral stairs to reach the first floor. Inside were artefacts left by the craftsmen who participated in the recent restoration. The tour guide explained the phases of restoration from the 19th century to the 2000s.

The 19th-century restoration

The 19th-century restoration programme took place at a time when Gothic architecture was rediscovered.

Under the auspices of writers (Victor Hugo) and with architects’ passion, many Gothic churches and monuments were restored.

Viollet-le-Duc is famous for its work on Carcassonne , Pierrefonds and notably Notre-Dame Cathedral , where he added fantastic creatures made of stone: the chimeras.

Tour Saint-Jacques was no exception to the rule, and many additions were made when restoring the site. An example of this is the beautiful siren (see photo below) added in the 19th century to the tower’s façade, knowing that sirens were not at all fantastic creatures depicted in the Middle Ages!

The location of the former bells

The second flight of stairs of approximately 80 steps led us to another fascinating floor where the ceiling is the actual top of the tower. The tower housed a carillon with 12 bells when it was the bell tower of the church. It was one of the finest in Paris after that of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Reaching the platform

The longest climb finally got us to the tower’s summit at 60 metres high, where the group discovered one of the most beautiful views of Paris. For our tour guide, it is the most stunning view due to the central position of the tower: a 360-degree view makes the monuments and landmarks of Paris so close and offers unexpected perspectives.

With a good lens, the Eiffel Tower reveals its iron laces. In the forefront rises the neo-Gothic basilica of Sainte-Clotilde :

View of the Île de la Cité in the forefront and the Left Bank in the background. You can spot several monuments: the Tribunal de Commerce, the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle, the Saint-Sulpice and Saint-Germain-des-Prés churches, the Montparnasse Tower and the Panthéon (under restoration):

The long façade of the Conciergerie on the Île de la Cité with the neighbourhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés behind it. You can see the dark skyscraper of Montparnasse Tower in the background:

A gargoyle overlooking the first arrondissement of Paris:

The modern structure of the Pompidou Centre and the Gothic church of Saint-Merri in the forefront:

The best place to view Haussmann’s work

A stunning view reveals the work of Baron Haussmann in the mid-1850: boulevard de Sébastopol leading to the Gare du Nord. The shady street marks the boundary between Paris’s 1st (left) and 4th (right) arrondissements. To the left, the neighbourhood of Les Halles (with the new canopy and Saint-Eustache church) and the hill of Montmartre:  

To the left: the perspective of rue de Rivoli leading up to the Place de la Concorde. You can see the CBD of La Défense in the background.

To the right: the district of Les Halles with Saint-Eustache church and the hill of Montmartre.

A closer look at the perspective of rue de Rivoli created by Baron Haussmann in the mid-1850s:

A stunning view of the Historical Axis of Paris (la Voie Triomphale). From the Louvre, the axis runs through the Tuileries Garden, the Place de la Concorde (see the Luxor Obelisk), the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and the Grande-Arche de la Défense (under restoration in 2015):

The Musée d’Orsay and the banks of River Seine:

The Pont des Arts without the love-locks! In 2015 the City of Paris replaced the locks with temporary pinkish deck rails before the installation of new transparent panels:

The best place to see the landmarks of Paris

Two domes in the same picture: the small dome of the Institut de France and the golden dome of Les Invalides:

In the forefront is the dome of the Bourse du Commerce (1st arrondissement) and the massive complex of Opéra Garnier in the background:

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica standing atop the hill of Montmartre:

A closer look at the church of Saint-Eustache, one of Paris’ most beautiful churches:

The Rue de Rivoli and Rue Saint-Antoine looking eastwards (4th arrondissement):

The Romanesque bell tower of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of the oldest churches in Paris:

 The Île Saint-Louis and its romantic quays:  

A closer look at the Gothic features of the Palace of Justice with the towers of the Conciergerie and the Sainte-Chapelle:

Saint-Sulpice (6th arrondissement), Paris’ second biggest church after Notre-Dame cathedral:

The trees of boulevard Saint-Michel, marking the boundary between the 5th (left) and 6th (right) arrondissements:

The Panthéon and its impressively tall crane (2015-2016 restoration):

The Fontaine du Palmier (Palm tree fountain) overlooks the Place du Châtelet and the banks of the River Seine:

How to book the climb!

To visit the monument, book online here .

Fees: Adult: 12 euros, Concession: 10 euros.

Please note:

• The climb is not accessible to children under ten years old.
• The ascent can be difficult as it takes place through a long narrow spiral staircase.
• Therefore, it is best to be in (very) good physical condition and not be prone to dizziness or claustrophobia.

Opening times (2022)

• From Friday 10 June to Sunday 13 November 2022
• Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
• From 10 am to 6 pm.

The guided tour proposed by the MagmaCultura agency retraces the history of the former bell tower of the Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie church, which has dominated the landscape of the right bank of the Seine for five centuries.

About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

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I finally timed my 10th visit to Paris correctly and was able to do the tower tour in September ‘21. Five of us were guided by two very pleasant and knowledgeable young folks who seemed to truly enjoy their work. I’ve been to just about all of the “high” points from which to view the city, and the Tour Saint-Jacques is right there near the top. You’re high enough to see a lot, but not so high that you lose perspective of the details. The climb, if you are healthy enough, is well worth the effort! 🤙🏽

Thank you, Greg for telling us about your visit (and climb!) to the Tour Saint-Jacques!

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