Saint Sulpice and The DaVinci Code

The historic Church of Saint Sulpice is situated in the heart of downtown Paris. The present church, founded in 1642 by Father Jean-Jacques Olier, also founder of the Society of St. Sulpice, is a masterpiece of classical architecture. It underwent various periods of construction, renovation, and artistic enhancements, and survived the French Revolution fairly intact, albeit with the south tower never completed.

Famous for its renowned organ (now a national historical monument), its mural paintings by Eugène Delacroix (1798-1863), and several aspects of imitation of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the church has traditionally attracted many tourists. Its huge size is second in Paris only to the beautiful Cathedral of Notre-Dame. It can accommodate up to 6,000 people. Many who visit Saint Sulpice are interested in the church’s historical importance, its eclectic artwork, or wish to experience the majestic tones of its world-class organ.

Now that has changed. The church attracts other interested visitors. The phenomenally best-selling book by Dan Brown, The Da Vinci Code, has brought unprecedented celebrity to this sometimes unnoticed church tucked away on the lovely Place St.-Sulpice.

Since the publication of the book and with the movie by director Ron Howard set to be released in May, visitors have been streaming into Saint Sulpice – novel in hand – to seek out the sights where the bizarre events of the novel allegedly occurred. Alas, the pastor, Sulpician Father Paul Roumanet, p.s.s., must recount time and again how the church was never the site of a pagan temple, how no murder was ever committed there, and how the now infamous obelisk is decidedly not Egyptian!

Many critics of The Da Vinci Code have pointed out its serious historical defects, both with regard to Leonardo Da Vinci and regarding biblical and theological assertions. Few have pointed out the artistic license the author used in describing Saint Sulpice and its significance. In order to educate the public who come en masse to see the church, Father Roumanet has posted accurate explanations – in French and English – of the true nature of this remarkable building.

The fact is that Saint Sulpice is a vibrant parish that serves many French Catholics in the area. It also attracts a sizable group of foreigners to its Sunday liturgies and concerts, among them any Americans.

- Ronald Witherup, S.S.
Provincial Superior of the US Province