Montmartre is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris, and among its many wonders is the Sacre Coeur Basilica. Along with the incomparable Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sacre Coeur Basilica occupies a privileged place among the temples of Paris, and if you want to live a unique experience, do not hesitate to visit it.
In the mid-nineteenth century, France faced Prussia, one of its most powerful enemies. Both nations were at war, and although the conflict was short, it claimed the lives of many French soldiers.
In honor of them, the local administration ordered the creation of a new church, consecrated to the Sacred Heart. However, the political situation in France was slow to improve, and the Franco-Prussian War was followed by several more war conflicts, including the First World War.
Due to this, the construction and subsequent inauguration of the Sacre Coeur Basilica was postponed several times. Finally, the temple opened its doors in 1914, and was officially consecrated to the Sacred Heart in 1919.
The main characteristic of the Sacre Coeur Basilica is its magnificence, since it measures no more and no less than 84 meters high. Also, as it is located at the top of Mount Montmartre, the dome of this church is one of the best viewpoints of this beautiful Parisian neighborhood.
The architectural design of the Basilica of the Sacre Coeur is also unusual, since it does not follow the classical parameters of the time. Instead, it was built in the style of the old Byzantine cathedrals, making it an architectural treasure.
Of course, the interior of the basic is as magnificent as its exterior, and inside it we find amazing stained glass windows and impressive works of art. The most wonderful of all of them is the fresco of the Sacred Heart, which occupies the entire ceiling of the dome.
Another of the curiosities related to the Sacre Coeur Basilica is its bell tower, which is a separate building from the main structure. This bell tower is not only famous for its size, but also for La Savoyarde, a majestic bell that weighs 18,550 kg and measures three meters in diameter.
Similarly, the Basilica of the Sacre Coeur has a special atmosphere, very calm and solemn, ideal for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and letting yourself be caught up in the immensity of the temple.
The architectural design of the Sacre Coeur is based on Byzantine churches, in particular the famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, which gives it a unique appearance compared to other Gothic churches in Paris. Underneath the basilica is a subway crypt containing numerous religious relics and a monumental altar.
The facade retains its whiteness despite the passage of time and pollution because the basilica was built with white travertine stone from Château-Landon. The main property of the stone is that when it comes into contact with rainwater it emits calcite, thus maintaining its whiteness.
Inside the Sacre Coeur basilica is one of the largest mosaics in the world, known as the Risen Christ by Luc Olivier Merson, with an area of 475 m² shows Christ with open arms in the form of a cross giving himself to God to save men.
The Montmartre neighborhood and the Sacre Coeur Basilica are part of the must-sees in Paris, and visiting them is an opportunity that you cannot miss. Note that you can walk up the hill where the basilica is located, but there is also a public transport option.
Many tourists take the Montmatre funicular, which goes up to the Sacre Coeur, as well as being a very entertaining ride that the whole family can enjoy. Remember that the entrance to the basilica is free, but if you want to go up to the dome, you will have to buy a ticket.
Finally, you should know that the Sacre Coeur Basilica is open all year round, so any season is a good time to visit it.
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