Sacre-Coeur Basilica, Paris
Sacre-Coeur Basilica
Address: Basilique Sacre-Coeur De Montmartre, Adoration Eucharistique Jour Et Nuit, 35 rue du Chevalier De La Barre, 75018 Paris
Arrondissement: 18th arrondissement
Hours: The Basicilica is open 6:00am to 11:00pm, last entries 10:15pm; The dome and crypt are open from 9:00am to 7:00pm (6:00pm during the winter); Bookshop everyday except Monday’s from 9:15am to 5:45pm
WWW: Sacre-Couer
Phone: 33 1 53 41 89 00
Email: basilique@sacre-coeur-montmartre.com
About the Sacre-Coeur Basilica
Sacre-Coeur Basilica, translated to the Basilica of the Scared Heart, is a Roman Catholic basilica and popular Paris attraction. The monument is located at the highest point in the city, a top Montmartre hill, so that all of Paris can see its full glory.
The original idea behind the construction of the church was to dedicate it completely to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Sacred Heart is a sect of the Roman Catholic church that is devoted entirely to the physical heart of Jesus which stands for diving love for all humanity. After nearly 60,000 soldiers lost their lives in the Franco-Prussian War, the Assemblee nationale agreed to go forward with the plans at the request of the archbishop of Paris. The project was taken on as a National Vow by the church and patronage poured in from parishes throughout France to support the noble cause. Architect Paul Abadie, chosen over nearly 80 other fine architects, was given the commission and sent to work. The foundation was finally laid in June of 1875 and the rest is history.
The Sacre-Coeur is done in Romano-Byzantine style. A conscious effort was made not to display any of the lavish neo-Baroque pieces that were so popular during its construction time. Rather there are many other nationalist themed design elements such as the grand portico, the beautiful arches, equestrian statues of saints Joan of Arc and King Saint Louis IX and the nineteen ton Savoyarde bell; one of the world’s heaviest bells. The Basicilica is also home to an enormous and exquisite organ built made by Aristide Cavaille-Coll.
Abadie made sure that the Basicilica was built only of travertine stone, which was quarried in France and brought to the city of Paris. The stone does not absorb calcite which ensures Sacre-Coeur will remain white as long as it stands.
From a top the Dome, guests can enjoy fantastic views of Paris year round. Guests may also attend a mass or rid themselves of sin at they daily confession if they so desire.
Getting to Sacre-Coeur Basilica
You may get on metro lines 12 or 2 at any of the following places: Jules Joffrin, Pigalle or Anvers. Get off at stop Place du Tertre or Norvins to get to the Sacre-Coeur.
Sacre-Coeur Basilica Hotels
Here is a short guide to hotels near Sacre-Coeur Basilica.
2 star Hotel Altona offers a quiet yet convenient location at 166 rue du Faubourg-Poissonniere, Paris in the 10th arrondissement. Merely a quarter kilometer from Barbes and Anvers tube stations, it can get you to the Montmartre district with ease. Here you can visit Sacre Coeur as well as scour the 18th arrondissement for more fantastic Paris attractions. Rates start as low as 44EUR with breakfast included.
Located at 41 rue Jean-Baptiste Pigalle, the 3 star Trinite Plaza offers a perfect spot between the Opera Garnier, Grands Boulveards and Sacre-Couer. Its pleasant atmosphere offers up to date, comfortable amenities. For 80EUR a night, you can get a single bed with breakfast included to start your day visiting the sites of Paris.
The elusive 4 star Millennium Hotel Paris Opera has a fine position at 12 Boulevard Hassumann in Paris. The hotel boasts authentic 1920s style decor and delicious French cuisine. The Liberty Bar is has a cozy fireplace and friendly atmosphere. Situated in a central location it is steps away from Sacre Coeur as well as other sites like the Louvre.
Photo courtesy of Magda Zych.
