While in there were approximately large organs and smaller ones, in only 36 were left — and at this time there are only 24 organs dating at least partly to the pre-Revolution period. Of those 24, only three are in French Classical style, five in what they called Neo-Classical style, seven rebuilt in the 19 th century, and nine rebuilt in the 20th century.
Photo: Michele Kurlander. I have discovered a source of calm and solace in visiting Paris churches. They have become places to enter for a short vacation from the streets and from my daily life— where I love to sit and meditate or contemplate in beautiful and spiritual surroundings, breathing slowly and, sometimes when the timing is right, also be surrounded by the grandeur and majesty of music from the organ above me.
For practicing Christians, they are also places where you can join Paris residents in worshipping, and for those who are not Christian, as in my case, attending a mass in Paris can nevertheless be a beautiful experience. They also have fascinating histories if you take the time to find out.
Many articles have been written about all the churches in Paris, and the beautiful organ music that can be heard in their halls. All three are large and impressive, boasting huge pipe organs that can be heard during services and also at scheduled concerts listed on their web pages and numerous travel sites.
They are also visited by substantial crowds of tourists. Travel writer Rick Steves believes that the sound of the Saint Sulpice organ is the most spectacular anywhere, and its organist is well known. However, I do not intend to write about these — because what I love about Paris is the fact that I can wander the neighborhoods and find so many lesser known churches and quietly attend services and experience the joy and surprise of hearing spectacular, though relatively unpublicized, organ music; of observing beautiful architecture and glass windows not listed in every guide book; of learning a little more about Paris history; and finding calm places in which to indulge in quiet contemplation.
