View Place de la Madeleine in 360 virtual tour
Place de la Madeleine is one of our favorite spots in Paris. The exterior is imposing and reminds most people of the Pantheon, but that is just because the architecture is of a new classical style. The place is very beautiful on the inside and is still a common site for Parisians to get married in. The most breathtaking thing when you enter is the nave. The beautiful fresco by Jules-Claude Ziegler is stunning to say the least. Place de la Madeleine was made in honor of the glory of Napoleons armies and this is apparent from the fresco, which prominently features Napoleon. It is also home to statues such of Mary Magdalene, and of the Birth of Christ. The exterior is just as interesting. The pediment has a display of the last judgment, while the doors bear inscriptions of the Ten Commandments. There is also a contemporary touch to the arts, as the foyer is often decorated by local artists. You can also eat at the restaurant here, do note that it is only open 11:30am to 2pm, and is closed on all holidays. You can eat under the vaulted ceilings. It is also a common site for funerals and many prominent figures (such as Chopin) had their funerals here.