Located in Nice, France, the Church of Saint Joan of Arc (Sainte Jeanne d'Arc) is a Roman Catholic parish church dedicated to Joan of Arc that offers a truly unique architectural perspective. If you appreciate bold design, you will want to visit this controversial landmark, nicknamed "the Meringue" by some locals for its striking white color and judged ugly by others. Built between 1932 and 1934 using innovative reinforced concrete over two older crypts, the church showcases an Art Deco-influenced style masterminded by architect Jacques Droz.
As you step inside, you will behold an astonishing interior volume featuring 25-meter-high vaults supported by just four pillars beneath three large ovoid domes and eight smaller ellipsoidal domes. The thin-shell concrete domes taper from 45 centimeters thick at the base down to just 8 centimeters at the top, contrasting dramatically with the angular, 64-meter-tall steeple outside. During your visit, be sure to admire the remarkable 95-square-meter fresco paintings representing the Stations of the Cross.
Executed by Eugène Klementieff in 1934, these interior paintings blend fascinating artistic influences from Russian Cubism, Italian Quattrocento, and Byzantine Orthodox icons, making the parish an unforgettable stop on your journey.
What to see at Sainte Jeanne d'Arc Church
- Art Deco-influenced architecture constructed from reinforced concrete
- White exterior nicknamed "the Meringue" by local inhabitants
- Astonishing interior volume with 25-meter vaults on just four pillars
- Angular 64-meter steeple contrasting with rounded concrete domes
- 95-square-meter Stations of the Cross frescoes by Eugène Klementieff
Visiting tips
Be sure to examine the interior frescoes to appreciate their unique blend of Russian Cubism, Italian Quattrocento, and Byzantine Orthodox styles.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Sainte Jeanne d'Arc Church is easy to reach on Nice’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Musée des Beaux-Arts Jules Chéret and Musée Matisse. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Nice travel guide.
See the full Nice travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.