Everything Everywhere Daily The Desecration of St. Denis (Encore)
Nov 28, 2025
The discussion dives into the fascinating history of the Basilica of Saint-Denis, once a royal burial site. Explore how the French Revolution aimed not just to change government but to reshape society entirely. The episode recounts the grim process of exhuming royal tombs and the shocking discoveries made. Hear about the mass burials and the politically charged decree to obliterate French history. Finally, it reflects on the disturbing legacy of these acts of revolutionary iconoclasm.
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Revolution Aimed To Erase Historical Memory
- The French Revolution sought not only political change but to erase centuries of social and cultural memory.
- Saint-Denis became a prime target because destroying royal tombs symbolically annihilated monarchy itself.
Saint-Denis As France's Royal Necropolis
- Saint-Denis housed the tombs of almost every French monarch from Clovis I onward and became synonymous with royalty.
- Because of its sacred royal association, the abbey carried the same national weight as Westminster Abbey or Arlington.
French Revolution Sought Deep Social Overhaul
- Unlike the American Revolution, the French Revolution pursued radical social restructuring beyond political independence.
- Measures included abolishing the Church's role, changing the calendar, and instituting a secular cult of reason.