St-Jacques Tower in Paris: A Historic Treasure

The St-Jacques Tower is the only remaining element of a church that once stood in central Paris and served as a significant starting point for Christian pilgrimages southward. Dating back to the 16th century, this stunning tower has recently undergone dramatic restoration.

Previously hidden under heavy scaffolding for years due to the deteriorating stone elements, the belltower has now been unveiled in all its revamped glory since early 2009. Consequently, it has once again become a prominent feature of the landscape on Paris’ central right bank (rive droite). The tower showcases breathtaking stained glass and statuary, resembling a standalone monument rather than merely an orphaned remnant of a church.

Location & Getting There

Getting to the St-Jacques Tower is quite easy due to its central location at the intersection of multiple 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)

Tower Visiting Hours

The tower is accessible by reservation only, as part of a guided tour. These special guided tours last for 50 minutes and are available for individuals as well as groups at specific times. It’s important to note that only five people are permitted to ascend at any given time.

The climb consists of 300 steps, roughly equivalent to 16 floors. Visitors who suffer from vertigo, claustrophobia, or have limited mobility should refrain from attempting this climb. Furthermore, children under 10 are not allowed on the tour for safety reasons.

Reserving a Tour

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

If the tours don’t fit your schedule or you prefer not to climb, the public square surrounding the tower offers excellent views and great photo opportunities. The square is open daily during daylight hours and closes at dusk.

A Short History of the Tower:

• The early 1500s: The 170-ft belltower is constructed as part of the Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie Church, designed in the medieval gothic tradition.
• 1793: The church is destroyed during the French Revolution, and the remaining tower is pillaged for its stone.
• 1836: The City of Paris acquires the tower, establishing it as the centerpiece of one of the city’s first public squares.
• 2006: The city initiates an extensive restoration project for the tower.
• 2009: The fully restored tower is officially unveiled.

Tips for Visiting the Tower

Unfortunately, the tower is not open to visitors without a prior tour reservation. Therefore, plan to visit the square during the early morning or dusk for breathtaking views of the tower and spectacular photo opportunities.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Walking up 300 stairs in heels or flip-flops can be quite uncomfortable.

If you crave dramatic architecture, consider venturing across the river to explore the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral or the stunning Sainte-Chapelle, which features some of the most intricate and beautiful stained glass from the medieval period.