St. Sergius Orthodox Theological Institute
If you are looking for a little adventure, something unique and off the beaten path, be sure to add this little known spot to your list of Paris discoveries.
Tucked away in the 19th arrondissement behind trees and shrubs down a private laneway is the oldest Russian Orthodox Theological Institute in Western Europe.
And I will show you how to find it!
Look out for this private driveway (pictured left) behind the green iron gates on Rue de Crimée and quietly enter.
Please be mindful that this is private property and a place of worship and study.
Follow the driveway and turn left onto the path (pictured right) with a slight incline.
You may catch glimpses behind the trees and shrubs as you climb the path, then turn right up the stairs et voilà.
Nestled away not far from the sprawling Parc des Buttes Chaumont and sitting high on a small hill is St Sergius Russian Orthodox Theology Institute.
Although you cannot gain entry inside the church, the façade and quaint surrounding grounds are definitely worth a visit if you are looking for something a little different to explore in Paris.
Make your way up the two flights of stairs to admire the timber, art and paint work.
Founded in 1925, the Russians bought the block of land and what was then a German Protestant church set high up on a hill in the 19th arrondissement.
If you wander around to the back of the church you will see the original exterior.
During WWII, under the German occupation, the Germans tried to claim it back but failed.
A couple of years back the treasurer of the institute was arrested for siphoning over 400,000 euros out of the already poor church.
The building is in dire need of repair and its fate is unknown but the leafy shady garden, pretty pots of flowers and park benches offers a little solitude and respite away from the madding crowds.
Very few Parisians know of this very unusual and detailed façade hidden away in the 19th arrondissement.
Paris has many hidden treasures, you just need to know where to find them.
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Paris Adèle’s Information Nécessaire:
St. Sergius Orthodox Theological Institute
93 Rue de Crimée
Paris 75019
Nearest Metro: Ourcq or Laumière
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