June in Paris: La Tour Saint Jacques

The illustrious Tour Saint-Jacques is situated in the 4th arrondissement of Paris, France, precisely at the junction of Rue de Rivoli and Rue Nicolas Flamel. This remarkable monument, reaching a height of 52 meters (171 ft), showcases exquisite Flamboyant Gothic architecture.

Today, what remains of the once magnificent church is revered as a cherished national treasure, representing an esteemed piece of the country's rich historical legacy. Let's look at everything you need about La Tour Saint Jacques.

History of the tour St Jacques

The Tour Saint-Jacques Tower is a testament to architectural beauty in the Paris Parc de la Tour Saint-Jacques. This flamboyant Gatholic-styled building was a dedication to Saint James the Great between 1509 and 1523 during the reining of King Francis I.

The tower's preservation can be attributed to the construction of the Eglise Saint-Jacques de la Boucherie, a sanctuary that enveloped the tower in the 18th century.

This church, named after Saint James of the Butchery, owed its existence to the affluence of the nearby Les Halles area and its bustling market, which attracted the patronage of butchers and locals alike.

Today, the Tour Saint-Jacques Tower stands as a cherished landmark, surrounded by the serene ambiance of Parc de la Tour Saint-Jacques, near the vibrant Les Halles district.

The Eglise Saint-Jacques de la Boucherie was a haven for pilgrims embarking on the Via Toronensis or Tours Way route from France to Saint-Jacques-de Compostelle, also known as Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

However, despite its original purpose, the church in Paris was dismantled after the French Revolution. However, the Tour Saint-Jacques Tower was spared from destruction through an agreement that mandated its preservation, despite the church's demolition of its materials. This tower was eventually renowned by the City of Paris in the 1860s and was made one of the historical monuments in Paris.