JEMA 2026: Meet the artisans behind the spire of Saint-Denis Basilica

The Basilica of Saint Denis is a must-see historic monument in the city. This sacred site is the final resting place for many kings and queens of France, from Dadobert I to Louis XVIII. It was also the place where numerous queens were crowned and anointed—Marie Tudor, Anne of Brittany, Catherine de’ Medici, and Marie de’ Medici among them...

This historic site, centuries old and bursting with history, requires special care to ensure its preservation and continued accessibility to visitors. Skilled craftsmen have been entrusted with restoring and maintaining this cherished historic building.

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These skilled professionals with special expertise are celebrated during the European Days of Artistry. Held annually in spring, this event offers the public a unique opportunity to explore the world of traditional crafts and meet artisans dedicated to preserving age-old techniques that have contributed to France’s rich cultural heritage and artisanal excellence.

From April 11 to 12, 2026, the Saint-Denis Basilica will open its doors to showcase the craftsmanship behind preserving this historic monument. Visitors can enjoy free activities exploring the traditional arts involved in its maintenance. Here's what’s planned.

The JEMA 2026 Schedule at the Basilica of Saint-Denis:

• Discover the craftsmanship behind the builders’ skills at the Fabbrique de la Flèche
  Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
  Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM
  Free entry, by reservation
  At the Fabbrique de la Flèche, step behind the scenes of one of Europe’s most ambitious heritage projects: the reconstruction of the North Tower and spire of the Basilica of Saint-Denis, in partnership with Suivez la Flèche. Explore a living monument where gothic architecture meets contemporary creativity. Here, the history of kings and queens converges with the bold craftsmanship of today’s artisans and artists, giving rise to a unique project that reflects the spirit of its region — a melting pot of skills and culture.
  Throughout the combined parcours from the royal necropolis to the Fabbrique de la Flèche, immerse yourself in French history, observe master artisans at work, discover an interactive permanent exhibition, and travel through centuries with immersive cinema. During JEMA 2026, Suivez la Flèche presents a special program focused on the crafts involved in the project. Workshops and virtual reality experiences are offered free of charge. To participate, a ticket for the Royal Necropolis – Fabbrique de la Flèche parcours is required, providing access to the site via the basilica.
• WORKSHOPS
  Learn about stone carving and blacksmithing with workshops led by the craftsmen involved in the project. This is a rare opportunity to discover and practice traditional skills at the heart of rebuilding the tower and spire of the cradle of Gothic art.
  Suitable for ages 6 and up — each session lasts 1 hour — reservations to come (link to be provided)
  Saturday, April 11 (stone carving and blacksmithing): 10:00-11:00 / 2:00-3:00 PM / 3:30-4:30 PM
  Sunday, April 12 (stone carving): 2:00-3:00 PM / 3:30-4:30 PM
• VIRTUAL REALITY
  Travel back in time and dive into the medieval construction site of the spire through virtual reality! Take control of the work, overcome on-site challenges, and step into the shoes of a medieval stonemason.
  Saturday, April 11, and Sunday, April 12 at 5:00 PM — ages 11 and up — reservations required (link to be provided)
• Dedicated Programs for Young Visitors
  Workshops on stone carving and blacksmithing are available from age 6. The virtual reality experience is accessible from age 11.

Arriving early is recommended, as the event is expected to draw quite a crowd! Take advantage of this cultural celebration to explore other iconic sites and exceptional crafts.

Artisan Careers Days 2026: Must-See Cultural Events to Experience in Paris and Île-de-France
The European Days of Artisanship are set to take place from April 7 to 12, 2026—a week dedicated to celebrating craftsmanship across France. During this special event, workshops and studios will open their doors, offering a rare chance to immerse yourself in the world of unique skills and traditional techniques. Marking its 20th edition, this celebration in Paris and Île-de-France promises an inspiring lineup of encounters and discoveries. Find out what’s in store for you. [Read more]