Name: The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre
Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
Telephone: 01 53 41 89 00
Rating: 4.7

Iconic, domed white church, completed in 1914, with interior mosaics, stained-glass windows & crypt.

Montmartre: A Bohemian Rhapsody in the Heart of Paris

Wall of Love

Provided by Google

Square Jehan Rictus

Dalí Paris

Place du Tertre

Musée de Montmartre

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre

Square Louise Michel

Garry Simmons

kristin AUSSANT

Jemalie John

Nuno Centeio

Swapnil Banerjee (Fusick)

Halle Saint-Pierre

Eiffel Tower

Louvre Museum

Pixabay

Chen Te

amine photographe

Fran  Zaina

Disneyland Paris

Arc de Triomphe

Champ de Mars

The hill where the Sacré-Cœur Basilica stands, Montmartre, is named after the martyred Saint Denis, Paris' first bishop and patron saint. Legend says he was beheaded by the Romans, picked up his head, and walked away preaching repentance. He is buried where he died, commemorated by the St. Denys-la-Chapelle shrine.

Hill of Martyrs

Unlike most churches built during the Sacré-Cœur's construction, which were dedicated to Mary, the Basilica is uniquely dedicated to Jesus Christ himself.

Dedicated to Jesus

This article highlights 28 interesting facts about the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, offering a glimpse into its history, architecture, and significance.

Fun Facts

The site of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica was a place of worship long before the current structure was built, showcasing its historical and religious importance.

Ancient Place of Worship

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, a Roman Catholic church in Paris, France, is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Its construction, initiated in 1875, was driven by the desire for atonement following the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune. The basilica's distinctive white stone exterior, a result of the use of travertine limestone, exudes an ethereal presence. Its Neo-Byzantine-Romanesque architecture, characterized by elongated domes and intricate mosaics, sets it apart from the city's other landmarks. The interior, adorned with a vast mosaic depicting the Triumph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, offers a breathtaking spectacle. The basilica's prominent location atop the Butte Montmartre affords visitors panoramic views of Paris, making it a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Introduction

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of historic preservation in Paris. Constructed between 1875 and 1914, the basilica's distinctive Romano-Byzantine architecture blends elements of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its pristine white façade, a result of the use of Château-Landon stone, has earned it the nickname "the White Basilica." The basilica's interior is equally impressive, adorned with intricate mosaics and stained glass windows that depict scenes from the life of Christ.

Beyond its architectural significance, the basilica holds immense historical value. Conceived as a symbol of national repentance and atonement following the Franco-Prussian War, it has witnessed countless events that have shaped French history. Its construction was funded entirely by private donations, reflecting the deep devotion of the French people to their faith.

Today, the basilica remains a vibrant center of worship and pilgrimage, attracting millions of visitors annually. Its historic significance and architectural beauty have made it a beloved landmark, ensuring its continued preservation for generations to come.

Historic Preservation

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre stands as a testament to the enduring power of Catholicism in France. Conceived after the Franco-Prussian War as an act of national atonement, its construction was funded entirely by private donations, reflecting the deep faith of the French people. The basilica's prominent location atop the Butte Montmartre symbolizes its role as a beacon of Catholicism, visible from across the city. Its neo-Byzantine architecture, with its distinctive white domes and mosaics, evokes the grandeur of Eastern Orthodox churches, yet it remains firmly rooted in the Catholic tradition. The basilica's interior is adorned with intricate mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ, reinforcing its status as a sacred space dedicated to the worship of God. As a minor basilica, Sacré-Cœur enjoys special privileges, including the right to display the papal umbraculum and tintinnabulum, further emphasizing its significance within the Catholic hierarchy.

Symbol of Catholicism

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre is an architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the grandeur of Romano-Byzantine architecture. Its distinctive white travertine façade, quarried from Souppes-sur-Loing, exudes an ethereal glow that sets it apart from the Parisian cityscape. The elongated ovoid cupola, a defining feature of the basilica, soars 83.33 meters high, symbolizing the celestial realm. The campanile, or bell tower, houses the "Savoyarde," the largest bell in France, weighing a colossal nineteen tons. The basilica's interior is equally awe-inspiring, with a nave dominated by a towering dome that represents the connection between the earthly and heavenly realms. Massive columns adorned with intricate carvings support the dome, creating a sense of grandeur and spirituality. The basilica's unique blend of architectural styles, including Neo-classical elements, showcases the evolution of architectural thought in the late 19th century.

Architectural Landmark

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre stands as a potent symbol of national identity, deeply intertwined with France's tumultuous history. Its construction, initiated in 1875, was a direct response to the Franco-Prussian War and the perceived moral decline of Paris. The basilica's design, with its Romanesque-Byzantine style and prominent white dome, evokes a sense of grandeur and permanence, reflecting the nation's desire for renewal and spiritual rebirth.

The basilica's location on the hill of Montmartre, the highest point in Paris, further emphasizes its symbolic significance. It overlooks the city, a constant reminder of the nation's resilience and its unwavering faith. The basilica's interior is adorned with intricate mosaics and stained-glass windows, depicting scenes from French history and the life of Christ, reinforcing the connection between national identity and religious devotion.

Over the years, the Sacré-Cœur has become a beloved landmark, visited by millions of pilgrims and tourists alike. Its enduring presence serves as a testament to the enduring power of national identity and the role of faith in shaping a nation's destiny.

Symbol of National Identity

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre in Paris, Île-de-France, France, is a captivating example of Byzantine-Romanesque architecture, a style that emerged in the 19th century as a revival of earlier architectural traditions. The basilica's distinctive features include its elongated domes, reminiscent of Byzantine churches, and its rounded arches and thick walls, characteristic of Romanesque architecture. The use of white stone and intricate mosaics further enhances its Byzantine inspiration.

One of the most striking aspects of the basilica is its elongated ovoid cupola, which rises 83.33 meters high and is surrounded by four smaller cupolas. This design, influenced by Byzantine architecture, creates a sense of grandeur and emphasizes the basilica's verticality. The rounded arches and thick walls, on the other hand, are reminiscent of Romanesque architecture, providing a sense of solidity and strength.

The basilica's interior is equally impressive, with its high dome symbolizing the celestial world and its rectangular space representing the terrestrial world. The two are connected by massive columns, which signify the passage between the two realms. The use of mosaics and stained glass windows adds to the basilica's Byzantine character, creating a rich and vibrant atmosphere.

Overall, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre is a unique and captivating example of Byzantine-Romanesque architecture, blending elements from both traditions to create a distinctive and awe-inspiring structure.

Byzantine-Romanesque Architecture

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre in Paris is renowned for its awe-inspiring mosaic masterpiece, a testament to the artistry of Lucien Bégule. Completed in 1923, this colossal work of art spans an impressive 475 square meters, making it one of the largest mosaics in the world.

At the heart of the mosaic is Christ in Majesty, depicted with a luminous aura that draws the eye. Surrounding him are a multitude of saints, angels, and religious symbols, each meticulously crafted to convey a profound spiritual message. The mosaic is adorned with intricate crosses, laurel wreaths, doves, and rays of light, enriching its iconographic significance.

Bégule's mastery is evident in the mosaic's architectural elements, which echo the Neo-Byzantine style of the basilica. Columns, arches, and decorative patterns frame the central scene, adding grandeur and complexity to the composition. The mosaic is not merely a decoration; it is a sacred work of art that invites contemplation and inspires devotion.

Visitors to the basilica are captivated by the mosaic's vibrant colors and intricate details. It is a testament to the enduring power of art and faith, a masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift all who behold it.

Mosaic Masterpiece

Nestled atop the picturesque hill of Montmartre, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre stands as a beacon of faith and a sanctuary for pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal. Conceived as a symbol of repentance and hope after the Franco-Prussian War, the basilica's striking Romano-Byzantine architecture and luminous white facade have made it an iconic landmark.

Pilgrims are drawn to Sacré-Cœur for its perpetual adoration of the Holy Eucharist, which has been maintained since 1885. The basilica's spacious interior, adorned with intricate mosaics and stained glass, provides a serene and contemplative atmosphere for prayer and meditation. Visitors can participate in daily masses, guided tours, and special pilgrimage programs designed to deepen their spiritual journey.

Beyond its architectural grandeur, Sacré-Cœur holds a special significance as the site of the martyrdom of Saint Denis, the patron saint of Paris. Pilgrims often visit the crypt beneath the basilica to pay homage to his relics and seek his intercession. The basilica's location on the summit of Montmartre offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, inviting pilgrims to reflect on the transience of earthly life and the eternal nature of the divine.

Religious Pilgrimage Site

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, perched atop the highest point in Paris, offers unparalleled panoramic city views. From its elevated position, visitors can capture the essence of the city's iconic landmarks and architectural tapestry. The vast expanse of Paris unfolds before your eyes, with the Eiffel Tower standing tall in the distance, its intricate latticework reaching towards the heavens. The majestic Arc de Triomphe marks the western edge of the city, while the golden dome of the Invalides gleams in the sunlight. The Louvre Museum, with its iconic glass pyramid, sits proudly on the banks of the Seine, while the white façade of the Opéra Garnier adds a touch of grandeur to the cityscape. For a truly breathtaking experience, ascend the basilica's dome, where a 360-degree panorama awaits. From this vantage point, the entire city becomes a miniature wonderland, with its intricate streets, verdant parks, and historic monuments laid out before you. The panoramic views from the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre provide a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty and grandeur of Paris.

Panoramic City Views

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre is a magnificent testament to the Sacred Heart Devotion, a profound Catholic tradition that venerates the compassionate love of Jesus Christ. This devotion finds its heart within the basilica's stunning mosaic, where Jesus stands with outstretched arms, his gaze piercing, inviting the faithful into a realm of worship. The mosaic's intricate details reveal a captivating narrative, depicting France dedicating itself to the Sacred Heart, an act that inspired the basilica's construction.

As a sanctuary for the Sacred Heart Devotion, Sacré-Cœur exudes an atmosphere of profound reverence. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to the basilica's serene ambiance, where they can immerse themselves in prayer, meditation, and the contemplation of Jesus' boundless love. The basilica's perpetual adoration chapel provides a sacred space for uninterrupted worship of the Eucharist, a central practice in the Sacred Heart Devotion.

Beyond its architectural grandeur, Sacré-Cœur is a living testament to the transformative power of the Sacred Heart Devotion. Its history is intertwined with the spiritual renewal of France, as it was built as an act of national repentance and a symbol of hope amidst adversity. Today, the basilica continues to be a beacon of faith, attracting countless devotees who seek solace, inspiration, and a deeper connection with the divine love of Jesus Christ.

Sacred Heart Devotion

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, a prominent landmark and the second most visited monument in Paris, has recently been classified as a protected historic monument by France's Minister of Culture. This recognition acknowledges the basilica's significant cultural and historical value as a national treasure.

The basilica's construction began in 1875 and was completed in 1914. It was consecrated after the end of World War I in 1919. The basilica's unique Neo-Byzantine-Romanesque architectural style, designed by Paul Abadie, sets it apart from other Parisian landmarks. Its distinctive white domes and intricate mosaics contribute to its captivating visual appeal.

Beyond its architectural significance, the basilica holds immense religious importance. It was built as a symbol of national penance and a testament to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The basilica has been a site of perpetual Eucharistic adoration since 1885, attracting pilgrims and worshippers from around the world.

The basilica's classification as a national monument ensures its preservation and protection for future generations. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of this iconic Parisian landmark, which continues to captivate visitors with its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre

Did You Know?

Hill of Martyrs

Dedicated to Jesus

Fun Facts

Ancient Place of Worship

Highlights from Reviews

Location