Basilique de Sacré-Cœur

The Basilique de Sacré-Cœur is located in the 18th arrondissement. Built from 1873, this religious structure sits high atop the butte Montmartre. The architect, Paul Abadie, combined Romanesque and Byzantine style. It is a striking building with a dome rising 271’.

The structure attracts tourists for several reasons. The large dome provides excellent views of the city below. You can climb up the spiral staircase to an observation perch. There is also the 262’ campanile. The bell is called La Savoyarde. Weighing around 19 tons, it is one of the heaviest bells in the world.

Inside, a golden mosaic rises above the choir. Luc Olivier Merson painted “Christ in His Majesty” in 1922. It remains 1 of the largest mosaics of this type. Within is also the crypt. It features vaulted arches. The bronze doors of the portico feature Biblical scenes such as “The Last Supper.”

The stained glass windows of the Basilica also draw some attention. They were put into place in 1922. World War II saw to their destruction. They were restored in 1946.

While you are in the neighborhood, you may consider fitting in any of the following nearby attractions:

  • St. Vincent Cemetery
  • Musée de Vieux Montmartre
  • Cimitière de Montmartre
  • Moulin Rouge