Saint-Jean de Montmartre Church

Visit description

Saint-Jean-l’Évangéliste Church of Montmartre is a unique monument, completed in 1904, that marked a turning point in sacred architecture. Designed by Anatole de Baudot, it was the first church to be built largely in reinforced concrete and brick—an audacious technical choice that made it possible to dispense with traditional buttresses and create a light, luminous interior.

Rooted in its working-class neighbourhood, the church embraces an Art Nouveau aesthetic close to everyday life. Far from intimidating cut stone, its red brickwork and colourful ceramics create a warm atmosphere, enhanced by modern, highly symbolic artworks.

Visit plan

Step 1: Exterior architecture

Observe the innovative brick-and-reinforced-concrete structure that made this modern, economical church possible.

Step 2: The baptismal font

Admire the contemporary octagonal font by Goudji, decorated with fish motifs and inlaid with red jasper.

Step 3: The stained glass of the Adulterous Woman

Contemplate this dramatic window where Jesus shields the accused woman as the scribes raise stones.

Step 4: The Virgin’s Chapel

Pause before the poignant mural decoration, evoking the suffering of the First World War through figures of soldiers and widows.

Step 5: The Wedding at Cana

Finish with the large chancel painting depicting Jesus’ first miracle, symbolising the passage from the Old to the New Covenant.