With its rows of uncompromising columns, this sturdy neoclassical edifice -- designed in 1814 but not consecrated until 1842 -- looks more like a proudly inflated, though unfaithful, version of a Greek temple than a Christian church. The loose interpretation was intentional: the overproportioned porticoes, the interior barrel vaults-cum-domes, and the opulent versions of the Ionic and Corinthian orders were meant to be Parisian one-upping of anything Athens had to offer. Changing political moods continued to alter the building's purpose -- a Greek basilica one day, a temple to Napoléon's glory another, a National Assembly hall the next. At one point, in fact, La Madeleine, as it is known, was nearly selected as Paris's first train station. Inside, the only natural light comes from three shallow domes. The walls are richly and harmoniously decorated; gold glints through the murk. Nowadays the opulent interior is the site of lots of expensive concerts as well as daily masses. And if sitting in the cool interior of a Catholic church is not enough to make you reflect on your faults, try viewing the huge fresco of the Last Judgment above you. A simpler crypt offers intimate weekday masses. Free classical music concerts and organ recitals are held throughout the week. Métro: Madeleine.