In the Île-de-France region, a concealed museum hidden within the heart of an extraordinary church

Published by Rizhlaine de Sortiraparis · Updated on January 29, 2026 at 12:30 a.m. · Published on January 28, 2026 at 12:58 p.m.
In Évry-Courecouronnes, in Essonne, a truly unique museum is tucked away inside a strikingly modern church. The Paul Delouvrier Museum, nestled within the Cathedral of the Resurrection, seamlessly blends sacred art, urban development, and the history of the Paris region in a setting that’s both unexpected and profoundly meaningful.

When thinking of the churches of Île-de-France, one often envisions medieval bell towers or Gothic naves illuminated by centuries-old stained glass. But in Évry, the scene takes a strikingly different turn. Opened in 1995, the Cathedral of the Resurrection Saint-Corbinian stands out with its circular architecture crafted from red bricks, crowned by a ring of trees planted atop its roof.

Designed by the renowned architect Mario Botta, a leading figure in contemporary architecture, the church stands out with its precise geometric lines, understated grandeur, and carefully controlled lighting. This spiritual building is a reflection of its era, conceived to serve as a guiding presence for the emerging new city being shaped in its midst.

En région parisienne, un musée caché au cœur d'une église insoliteEn région parisienne, un musée caché au cœur d'une église insoliteEn région parisienne, un musée caché au cœur d'une église insoliteEn région parisienne, un musée caché au cœur d'une église insolite
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What many people don't realize is that this cathedral also houses a hidden museum, almost secret, waiting to be uncovered by those who venture inside.

The Paul Delouvrier Museum is tucked away within the cathedral’s spaces, serving as a natural extension of the sacred site. It showcases a diverse collection of religious art, African art, and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and liturgical works. Named after Paul Delouvrier, a prominent civil servant and key figure in regional urban planning, the museum honors his significant contributions. He was instrumental in the development of the new towns, including Évry.

En Essonne, cette étonnante cathédrale cylindrique en briques est l'une des églises les plus insolites de la régionEn Essonne, cette étonnante cathédrale cylindrique en briques est l'une des églises les plus insolites de la régionEn Essonne, cette étonnante cathédrale cylindrique en briques est l'une des églises les plus insolites de la régionEn Essonne, cette étonnante cathédrale cylindrique en briques est l'une des églises les plus insolites de la région In Essonne, this cylindrical cathedral stands out as one of the most unusual churches in the region.
In Évry-Courcouronnes, in Essonne, a cathedral both confounds and captivates visitors. With its cylindrical shape, red bricks, and trees planted atop its roof, the Cathedral of the Resurrection Saint-Corbinian stands out as one of the most unusual churches in Île-de-France — a daring symbol of a religious heritage that is decidedly modern. [Read more]

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Practical information

Location

Le Clos de la Cathédrale
91000 Evry

Route planner

Access
RER D, Evry-Courcouronnes stop

Official website
museepauldelouvrier.fr

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