Commune bordering Paris, Saint-Denis is bordered by the Seine and crossed by the canal Saint-Denis. The city boasts many historical monuments. In view of its history, it is easy to understand why so many traces of the past survive on this commune of magnitude from its birth. If the first traces date back to the Neolithic, it is the medieval period that marks the advent of Saint-Denis. It all began in the seventh century when Dagobert chose to be buried in the chapel of Saint-Denis. Over the centuries, this chapel evolved into a basilica. A vast necropolis is developing in parallel. From the 12th century onwards, the city enjoyed remarkable growth. It has 10,000 inhabitants and extends homes as well as extends its religious heritage. Place strong to besiege Paris during the wars of religion, Saint-Denis knows a tormented time from which it will leave very quickly. The industrial development continues to energize the city. Today the industrial areas of La Plaine and Pleyel are one of the most important in Europe.
Having played a major role in the city, the basilica of Saint-Denis is undoubtedly the inevitable place of your visit. It was in the seventh century that the building began to be built with Dagobert I. Then the place quickly became the place of burial of the Kings of France. This architectural ensemble is a splendid representation of Gothic art. Several times restored, you can admire its façade, but also its exceptional stained glass windows. The interior has nothing to envy the outside sheltering in particular a north portal of the twelfth century.
The Museum of Art and History of Saint-Denis has something to seduce you. Not only does it offer varied exhibitions on the themes of the history of the city and the art, but it is also in an old carmel classified to the Historic Monuments. It is therefore a double cultural attraction that offers you this museum that knows how to educate the little ones as well as to cultivate the great ones by proposing walks discovered through its collections.
The Factory of the City is an unusual museum. Through the skeleton of a house, he proposes to you to discover the social, architectural and economic history of Saint-Denis. It is also here that you can discover the techniques of archaeological excavations and introduce you to the profession of archaeologist. Perhaps this visit will be an opportunity to evoke vocations.
Strolling through the streets of Saint-Denis, you will have the opportunity to see facades of remarkable buildings, classified or not. Thus, the house with the Masks carries its originality in the sculpture of four masks in facade. The François Coignet house is the first concrete house. The house of the Crossbowmen takes its name from the inclined parts supporting the roof.
Finally, the Stade de France is at Saint-Denis. You will be able to support your favorite teams in an atmosphere of madness. The ball is always in the spotlight.
In February, the Dionysian film days allow you to see the evolution of mentalities through the cinema.
In the spring, the Tulip Festival is held in the magnificent Legion d'Honneur park. During this day, the circus arts are the stars of the scene. It is also the opportunity to walk through the stands of producers of wines and regional products gathered for the celebration. It will also be the moment to debate freely the major projects of the city.
In June, the Hip-Hop festival and urban cultures showcases urban music as well as rap. It is also the occasion to discover new talents in the margins of the concerts given by the hip-hop stars.
Each year, the festival of Saint-Denis and Métis are held in the basilica-cathedral of Saint-Denis and in the house of the Legion of Honor. Many concerts of classical music of the great authors of the past time like Mozart, Vivaldi or Bach await you in June. The Metis Festival, meanwhile, is a series of world music concerts.
For the return of September, you are invited to the picnic of return, with concerts on the place of the Basilica. For this event, tables and chairs are at your disposal to enjoy your picnic taken or bought on the spot, concerts live and smile to begin the re-entry.
In October, for the Saint-Denis, it's party at Saint-Denis. A day of entertainment and workshops awaits you in a festive and friendly atmosphere from noon to midnight. Games, shows and good humor are on the program for this day.
In November, moviegoers have an appointment with the Cinébanlieue festival to see the suburbs differently through short films and films.
