Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul

The church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul

The Blois audio-guided tour invites you to quiet contemplation before the church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul. Less imposing than its neighbour, the royal château, it nonetheless deserves the detour for its history and its architecture, witnesses to the Counter-Reformation in Blois.

A Jesuit chapel supported by Gaston d'Orléans

The origins of the church go back to 1634, with the desire to build a chapel for the Jesuit college founded a few decades earlier. The works advanced slowly, until Gaston d'Orléans, the king's brother recently exiled to Blois, multiplied the donations and contributed greatly to the completion of the project. The building illustrates the style of Jesuit churches, sober and majestic, born of the Catholic Counter-Reformation.

What there is to see

The façade and the interior of the church, of Jesuit inspiration, are distinguished by their classical order and their sober decor. A place of worship and contemplation, a stone's throw from the royal château, it offers a peaceful interlude in the heart of the historic centre. It is a stop for those interested in religious heritage and the history of seventeenth-century Blois.

Practical information

The church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul is in the historic centre of Blois, near the royal château. A place of worship, it is visited with respect for contemplation; access is generally free during opening hours, which may vary according to services. Appropriate dress is appreciated.

What are the origins of the church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul?

It goes back to 1634, as the chapel of the Jesuit college of Blois; Gaston d'Orléans contributed greatly to its completion.

Which figure supported its construction?

Gaston d'Orléans, the king's brother exiled to Blois, who multiplied the donations to allow the completion of the building.