torture chamber where victims were encouraged to tell all they knew – or ‘sing like a bird with a good beak’). The 14th- century clock on the Tour de l’Horloge is the city’s oldest, and is still working.
Conciergerie
Opening times: 9.30am–6pm daily (until 5pm Nov to the end of Feb)
(last admission 30 minutes before closing). Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec
Combined ticket with Sainte-Chapelle available.
Website:
www.monum.frTel: 01. 53 40 60 80
Conciergerie
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Continue along Quai de l’Horloge and turn right, the Sainte-Chapelle will be on your right after the Cour du Mai, which is the majestic main courtyard of the Palais de Justice. Built by St Louis between 1239 and 1243, this is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful buildings in the whole of France. Regarded as a high point in the Rayonnant Gothic style, the chapel’s 15 magnificent stained-glass windows are separated by the slimmest of stone columns soaring 15 metres (50 feet) into the air to support the blue-painted roof that is studded with gold stars – the symbol of the Blessed Virgin.
The Islands
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