Located in one of the most bohemian and picturesque areas of Paris, at the top of Montmartre hill, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (commonly known as Sacré-Cœur Basilica and often simply Sacré-Cœur, is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica in Paris, France) is one of the oldest in the city and the point from which you can get best views of beautiful Paris. It is a Neo-Byzantine style building whose design is the work of Paul Abadie. One of the most striking things about this temple is that being on top of a hill it can be clearly seen from different points of Paris and, if we add to this that it is a beautiful building, it offers amazing postcards for travelers who visit the French capital.
What to see in the basilica of Montmartre?
The Luc-Oiliver Merson mosaic
Among the things you should not miss on this visit is an immense mosaic by Luc-Oiliver Merson in which you can see a vivid image of the saint after whom the temple is named.
Joan of Arc statue
You should also not miss the two statues that adorn the entrance, of Louis IX and Joan of Arc, next to an impressive three-arched portico. The characteristic white color of the temple will also catch your eye. This is because it is built with a stone called travertine that whitens over time.
The dome of the Basilica
The dome will also catch your eye. It is supported by several columns, each one adorned with a capital. And in the center, the immense bell, so present in the photographs of this temple.
The crypt and the tower
The crypt and the tower are two other corners of this temple that you should not miss. In the first you will find a very well preserved buried piece of history. Going up the tower will allow you to enjoy amazing views of Paris.
The hill
Calmly climb the hill, rest on the lawn that surrounds the building and breathe natural air in the middle of Paris. This walk will be really rewarding and will help you discover a Parisian postcard that you never imagined existed.
Location of Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is located at 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart Hours and price
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart can be visited every day from 6:00 am to 10:30 pm free of charge.