Paris - Sacré Coeur

For a long time now, the Sacré Coeur has been and continues to be an attraction to religious groups and figures. Though the place is dedicated to peace and brotherhood, its establishment on its current site was brought about by misfortunes of violence and war.

During the 3^rd century, St. Denys, Paris’ first bishop, was beheaded in this place. The whole area was also occupied by a Benedictine Abbey until the French Revolution rioters burned the place down.

In 1870, at the time of Prussian War, there were two Catholic businessmen who started the Sacré Coeur Project. They were planning to make an offering if ever France were to withstand the war.

The construction of the area was approved and Cardinal Guibert, the archbishop of Paris at that time, picked the site in 1872. At the beginning, its construction was financed by small donations so work started by 1872. It wasn’t completely done until 1914. Because of the unfortunate outbreak of WWI, there was a delay of construction in 1919.

The place holds a blend of Byzantine and Romanesque features, as well as an Oriental-style dome, within which you can find a 19-ton bell.

Besides its unique design, the building showcases one other odd feature. Its walls actually become whiter as it grows older. It is made of travertine, which is a kind of stone that removes calcite. Its gradual erosion makes the building appear a dazzling white.

The artwork that goes along with the structure is definitely worth the visit. You’ll find beautiful sculptures of Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc) and King Louis by the top of the entrance. In addition, there are plenty of paintings and mosaics inside, such as a huge figure of the Virgin Mary and Child, plus one of the biggest mosaics in the world, the “Christ in Majesty.”

Rising 129 meters above the sea level, the church is situated in the northern area of Paris. It stands to be the second tallest building, only after the Eiffel Tower. It is also near the Pierre de Montmartre Church which has been standing since the 6^th century.

The structure consists of a number of rectangular walls and arches, plus various sizes of domes. Surrounding the area are fountains and gardens that adds peacefulness to the ambience. That is when the area isn’t packed with people, and during off-peak season or hours in the early morning.

By standing at the dome, you will have a pleasant view of the Paris grounds, as you can see the whole city. You can also see the Eiffel Tower at a distance. Seeing the blend of lights and sun is simply spectacular.

Getting to this area is bit of a challenge. Take a metro or subway station by the Abbesses. Though there may be a number of steps going to the Basilica, you will still be entertained with the scenery.

This is a top 5 Paris attraction which nobody will want to miss. Without a doubt you have to go and see it.

The Sacre Coeur is one of the top 5 most visited attractions in Paris. It is also one of the most visited religious attractions in the whole world.

The Dome of the Sacre Coeur is 83 meters high and it is open to the public through a narrow stairway of 234 steps. It is well worth the climb to the top where you are treated to a spectacular panorama of Paris. On a nice day, you can see nearly for 20 miles.

The Savoyarde, the great bell, was cast in Annecy in 1895 and has a weight of 19 tons, which makes it one of the heaviest bells in the whole world.

The Sacre Coeur Basilica is open from 7 a.m.-11 p.m daily. There isn't any entry charge to enter. The Dome climb, however, will cost 3 euros.