Sacré Coeur Basilica
Located on top of Butte Montmartre, the highest point in Paris, the magnificent Sacré Coeur is a spectacular sight that also provides visitors with some superb views of Paris
The Sacré Coeur, the Basilica of the Sacréd Heart of Paris, is actually a Roman Catholic Church. It serves as a monument to both political and cultural parties. It is seen as a penance for the excesses of the second empire as well as an embodiment of conservative morals and order.
It was both dedicated to honour the 58,000 lives lost in the Franco-Prussian war and to "expiate the crimes of the Commune" (an uprising that ensued as a result of the war). The location for the Sacré Coeur was decided when the successor to the martyred Archbishop Georges Darboy, Guibert, had a vision which revealed that the Butte Montmartre was where the martyrs were.
The Sacré Coeur was designed by Paul Abadie, who passed away not long after the foundation stone was laid, when he won a competition that was entered by 77 other architects for the job. His work was completed by five other architects. There were many stumbling blocks that were placed in the path of the construction of the Sacré Coeur but it prevailed and the foundation stone was laid on 16 June 1875 with construction being completed in 1914 and dedicated in 1919 after World War 1.
The Sacré Coeur has played a major role in Catholicism and is still used as a place of worship today. It is possible to attend services and mass each day. It is quite remarkable that the entire construction was funded through donations made by various pilgrims and the faithful. The stone the Sacré Coeur is built of remains white, no matter how much weathering and pollution it is subjected to which the faithful relate to the purity of Christ.
It is worth noting that you will not be permitted to make use of any cameras or video recorders within the Basilica. You are also asked to remain silent so as not to disturb the faithful who come from around the world to pray in this majestic Cathedral.
Nearby attraction: District of Montmartre
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoSacré Coeur Basilica Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
Phone: 01 53 41 89 00
Official Website: Sacré Coeur Basilica
Sacré Coeur Basilica Reviews
Rated out of 5
I visited here during Christmas 🎄 at night. This is truly amazing 👏. I liked the ambience and decorations. This is the last scene in John Wick 4 movie. Instead of steps i will recommend to take elevator for 2 euro. There are lot of steps and elevator is a better option. Inside is truly amazing and spiritual ✨️ 🙏
Mr. Shah - a month ago
Absolute must visit while visiting Paris. You can take the Polybahn or Stairs to reach the top. I'd recommend taking a stroll right behind the Basilica to check out the restaurants they have in the market. You can sit outside and do people watching while sipping on coffee or cocktail with some nice food. Plenty of street artists would be ready to give you a Sketch of yours if you want one. View from the top is amazing.
Nick - a month ago
This is a scared and beautiful place that's an architectural marvel. The church is beautiful inside out and located on top of a hill with amazing Paris views. It's a must visit if you are in the town.
Aman Sehdev - in the last week
A must see. This church has extremely beautiful architecture followed by a breathtaking ambiance inside. It continues the same tradition of having centuries of history, artifacts, and statues as the other magnificent churches and cathedrals I’ve visited in Paris. This time there was an actual service happening during my visit. It was amazing to see that this amazing venue is still active and not just a tourist attraction.
Sergio Colón - 2 months ago
Probably the most peaceful place in Paris. I love how solemn the church is. After Notre Dame reopened, it is much less crowded. Beautiful artworks and shrines. Security is a breeze.
Liam Avalon - 2 weeks ago
Directions
| Metro / RER Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| M2 | Anvers | 9 minutes (4 to the Funicular) |
| M12 | Abbesses | 11 minutes (5 to the Funicular) |
How to get to Sacré Coeur Basilica by Metro / RER
By Metro: Exit at either Anvers Station on the M2 Line or Abbesses Station on the M12 Line. To get to the Funicular that goes up to the base of the Basilica go to Abbesses Station on the M12 line; exit to the left and follow Rue Yvonne le Tac east watching for the sign to the Funicular (5 minutes) or you can take the stairs (11 minutes). From Anvers Station on the M2 line follow the crowds heading north past all the little shops on Rue de Steinkerque and head up the stairs (9 minutes) or go left at Place St. Pierre and look for the sign to the Funicular (4 minutes).
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Photo Gallery
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Many people enjoying a gorgeous day on the slopes and stairs leading up to Sacré Coeur cc licensed photo by edwin.11 -
Photo Credit: Brian.Riggs - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: szeke - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Drew de F Fawkes - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Janne Räkköläinen - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: dalbera - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Dmitry Djouce - cc license via Flickr
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