Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Overview

Perched at the highest point of the city atop the butte Montmartre, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a spectacular, blindingly white Romano-Byzantine church. It offers breathtaking, uninterrupted panoramas across the entire Parisian skyline.

Highlights

• The View: Sit on the expansive steps in front of the basilica to watch the sunset over Paris alongside locals and street musicians.
• The Apse Mosaic: Inside, look up at the soaring "Christ in Majesty," one of the largest mosaics in the world.
• The Dome: Climb the 300 spiraling steps to the outer dome for an even higher, 360-degree view.

History

Construction began in 1875 as a spiritual penance for the devastating defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War and the bloody Paris Commune. Completed in 1914, its brilliant white color comes from Château-Landon travertine stone, which constantly excretes calcite to "self-clean" when it rains.

Visitor Tips

• Getting There: Take the funicular up the hill if you want to avoid ascending the steep stairs.
• Etiquette: It is an active place of worship; absolute silence and respectful dress are strictly enforced inside.
• Duration: 1 hour.