The Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois Church is located on a small square next to the City Hall in the First Arrondissement, directly opposite the back entrance of the Louvre. Construction began in the 12th century by Robert le Pieux on the site of the former Temple, featuring a Romanesque bell tower. The facade, built between 1435 and 1439 in the Flamboyant Gothic style, includes five distinct arched portals, gables, columns adorned with statues, and a Renaissance-style porch from the 16th century. In the 14th century, it was a favorite church of the royal family at the Louvre; the infamous Massacre of Saint Bartholomew (August 24, 1572) took place here. After the French Revolution, it served as a grain store until major renovations during the Restoration period restored its current appearance.
Many renowned French painters who resided at the Louvre in the 18th century are buried within the church, including Boucher, Chardin, Van Loo, sculptors Coysevox and the two Coustou brothers, and architect Le Vau.
