This church has the name of Saint-Pierre-du-Gros-Caillou. Gros-Caillou - meaning big stone in English - is the name given to this area of Paris, in the 7th arrondissement, and it refers obviously to the fact that once upon a time there was a stone somewhere here, a landmark, probably a milestone.

The present church dates from the 1820's and is very simple in its architecture, according to those years' fashion, and the decoration is so modest that you may believe that you are in a protestant church rather than a catholic one. 

The church increased in size in the 1970's, in an even simpler architecture.

One of the original bells (from 1826) has been replaced and is exhibited just outside the entrance doors.

The confessionals were designed in the 1850's by Victor Baltard, of course better known for "Les Halles" (see previous post).


Maria Russell said...

In the first photo, I see the famous words of Jesus to the humble fisherman named Simon:
. TU . ES . PETRUS .
= You are Peter
...and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.

Your photos are amazing!
Thank you, Peter.

Alexa said...

What a coincidence, Peter. Am in Paris and happened to step into this church just yesterday. Nice to have all this info! Thanks, Alexa
(And will be in touch—hope to see you while I'm here.)