Val de Grâce Church - Part Two

Unlike most Catholic churches, Val de Grâce is not open on a permanent basis. The reason being it is part of the armies' ministry and its abbey houses a military hospital.

To visit the place, it is therefore necessary to attend service or occasional concerts. This is absolutely worth it, Val de Grâce is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris. The church canopy is inspired by that of Saint-Peter in Rome.

The nativity scene was wanted by Anne d'Autriche who dedicated the church to the Virgin Mary for giving birth to a Dauphin (French heir to the throne).

The fresco under the cupola alone is worth a visit! Pierre Mignard depicted the Holy Trinity. The "trompe-l'oeil" (optical illusion) effect is breath-taking! The neve sculpted vaulted ceiling is another masterpiece you don't see everywhere. Wouldn't you agree these are enough reasons to visit the church?