Sacré-Coeur Basilica
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Sacre Coeur - by MEAX PROD on Unsplash
Description
The Sacré-Cœur - its full name is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris - is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus (a symbol for God's boundless and passionate love for mankind). It is located at the summit of the butte Montmartre (the neighbourhood is covered in a separate review), the highest point in Paris. The monument, one of the most visited in the city, is relatively recent: it was built between 1875 and 1914 as an act of penance for the actions that took place during the Paris Commune in 1871 (the historical perspective has shifted significantly since then of course). The architectural style is Romano-Byzantine and incorporates nationalist themes (mostly through sculptures).
Access & Transport
From the south, the Butte Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur are best accessed from one of four métro stations: Blanche (2), Pigalle (2, 12), Anvers (2) - all along Bd de Clichy / Bd de Rochechouart - and Abbesses (12). On the northern side Lamarck-Caulaincourt (12) is the best option. For those who do not fancy walking up the hill (or down) there are a few bus services, including No 40 that stops next to the basilica and the Montmartobus that goes from Place Pigalle (next to line 2), up the hill and down the northern side to Place Jules Jofferin (next to line 12) and back the other way. This is by far the best option for visitors with reduced mobility as the area can be quite steep - a carer is likely to be required in any case. Access to the basilica for visitors with physical disabilities are via ramp and a lift at 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, behind the basilica. Entrance is free but a visit to the dome and crypt is not. The bourdon called "The Savoyarde" is the biggest bell in France
Instructions & Recommendations
A visit of the basilica is best complemented by an exploration of the Montmartre neighbourhood. Just as we wrote in that separate review, if you want a more quiet and relaxed experience, try to come before 10h00-11h00. If you want the sunset views, expect a lot more crowd. The neighbourhood is also very enjoyable off-season.
Environmental & Social
We deem this activity environmentally neutral. Socially, slightly positive as it helps preserve the city's architectural and artistic heritages.
Conclusion
The Sacré-Cœur has a very striking and original design, at least for a Parisian monument - it can feel a little out of place but because it is not physically integrated with the rest of the city, it seems to make the Butte Montmartre unique when viewed from the city centre. Inside, the architecture is not as grand as other churches in Paris but still worth a visit nonetheless. If you are in Montmartre, you should visit.
Key positive
Very distinctive design on the Paris skyline
Splendid views from there
The Montmartre neighbourhood!
Key negative
Street sellers and the crowd
Can take a little time and involves quite a few stairs (or a bus ride) to get there
Suitability
Suitable for all ages Accessible to visitors with reduced mobility (not the top and the crypt though - not reviewed here)
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 40m
est. visit time:0h 45m
Monday06:30 - 22:30
Tuesday06:30 - 22:30
Wednesday06:30 - 22:30
Thursday06:30 - 22:30
Friday06:30 - 22:30
Saturday06:30 - 22:30
Sunday06:30 - 22:30