The Sacre Coeur Basilica in Montmartre is the best example of Romanesque-Byzantine architecture in Paris. It is a national historic monument and as such, it is a popular tourist destination. It was conceived around 1870-71, a time of great turmoil. Napoleon III’s imperial regime had collapsed, and France was at war with Prussia. During this period of turmoil, the Catholic Church decided to build an enormous edifice on Montmartre. The construction is eccentric and odd, but it’s also a statement that they own the area. Montmartre is historically a place where boundaries, marginality, and freedom have been forged.
I spent an afternoon wandering around this historic neighborhood. It is an intriguing place to visit. Being one of the highest points in Paris, the views of the city from the steps of this church are spectacular.
If you’re a lover of the arts, the Sacre-Coeur neighborhood is the place to be. The area is brimming with artistic and cultural venues. For example, you’ll find the legendary Cafe des Deux Moulins, which starred in the award-winning 2001 film Amelie. You can’t miss this charming spot, which has red awnings and an unpretentious feel.
It is said that Vincent van Gogh spent two years in Paris, living in Montmartre with his brother, Theo. The area’s proximity to the city’s center gave him plenty of opportunity to paint both urban and rural scenes. His paintings of Montmartre capture the contrasts between these two types of landscape.
![Sacre-Coeur Steps](https://rexlexingtonlabs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Sacre-Coeur-Steps-BW-1024x485.jpg)
Large mosaics
If you’re visiting Paris, it’s impossible to miss the Sacre Coeur. The main entryway features bronze statues of Joan of Arc, King St. Louis IX, and other famous figures. The interior of the church is muted gray, which stands out from the white exterior. Inside the cathedral, the apse has an impressive mosaic painted in gold and blue, measuring 475 square meters. It was made by artists Olivier Merson, H. M. Magne, and R. Martin. This mosaic began in 1900 and was one of the largest in the world when completed in 1922. It depicts the risen Christ surrounded by adorers, including saints who protect France.
Other interior features include the Cavaille-Coll organ and stained glass windows. The church’s original stained glass windows were destroyed during World War II, but were replaced afterward. The church also houses a crypt that contains tombs and religious artifacts.
Nearby, another beautiful building is the Saint-Pierre de Montmartre church, which is 800 years old. It is less well known than the Sacre Coeur, and most visitors miss it. This medieval church features remnants of a Roman temple. It is also the site of the final vows of the Jesuit Saint Ignatius Loyola.
How to get to Sacre Coeur
![Sacre-Coeur Mosaics](https://rexlexingtonlabs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Sacre-Coeur-Mosaic-142x300.jpg)
If you want to take a walk through the hilly neighborhood in Sacre coeur Paris, there are many choices. The nearest metro stations are Abbesses and Anvers. It is a 10-minute walk to the Sacre-Coeur basilica from these metro stations. If you would prefer a different mode of transportation, there is also the funiculaire (cable railway). This is a fun and scenic way to get to Sacre-Coeur.
The Montmartre neighborhood is one of Paris’ hilly neighborhoods. It is famous for its winding cobblestone streets and views of Sacre Coeur. You can also find local shops selling breads and cured meats and quirky handmade clothing. If you are into museums and culture, you can spend an afternoon or evening in this neighborhood.
There is never enough time to visit this charming area. However, I tried my best to capture as many images as I could, whilst taking it all in for myself.