Ode to Saint Genevieve: guardian of Paris
This little lady is known as the guardian of Paris
My debut article is about Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris.
Her image towers over the people walking past her on Pont de la Tournelle, overlooking the Seine River.
Her back is facing central Paris as she looks eastward.
Legend has it that Saint Geneviève protected Paris against attackers around the year 500.
This statue of Saint Genevieve, which was erected in 1923, shows her protecting a child as a symbol of how she protected the city.
When I lived on rue Mouffetard in the 5th arrondissement on the Left Bank, I would walk by this statue all the time on my way up to the Marais.
[If your curiosity is piqued here is a link showing where else to find Saint. Geneviève in Paris]
Further Reading: Saint Genevieve on Travel France online
Legend of Sainte-Genevieve
“Sainte-Geneviève is celebrated as one of the three patron saints of the City of Paris.
Although common legend portrays her as a simple peasant girl, ancient texts indicate that she was born around 422AD into a noble family in Nanterre, a town west of Paris, with a Gallo-Roman father and a Frankish mother. Her life took a significant turn when Saint-Germain, the Bishop of Auxerre, recognized her exceptional devotion and sanctity during his visit to her village on his way to preach in Britain. After the death of her parents, Geneviève embraced religious life at a young age and moved to Paris, where she quickly gained renown for her piety, asceticism, and acts of charity.
During the siege of Paris by Attila and his Hun warriors in 451AD, Geneviève emerged as a symbol of resilience and courage for the city. Legend has it that her prayers and unwavering determination played a crucial role in persuading the Parisians to strengthen the city’s defenses instead of fleeing.
In a famous declaration, she encouraged the citizens, particularly the women, to pray fervently, proclaiming:
Que les hommes fuient, s’ils veulent, s’ils ne sont plus capables de se battre. Nous les femmes, nous prierons Dieu tant et tant qu’Il entendra nos supplications »
Let the men flee, if they want, if they are no longer able to fight. We women, we pray to God so fervently that He will hear our prayers “
Miraculously, Paris was spared from destruction, and Geneviève’s actions elevated her to the status of a heroine in the eyes of the people, cementing her place in Parisian folklore and history.”
Have you seen this statue of Saint Genevieve? There’s some controversy about the statue itself, what’s your view? Please let us know in the comments!
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About the Contributor
Jennifer Bragg
