Promenading in Paris: Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur)

The Sacred Heart Basilica, otherwise known as Sacre-Coeur, is a beautiful basilica that is of an entirely different architectural style (Romano-Byzantine) from the Notre Dame (Gothic). It is located atop a hill at Montmartre so it would be wiser to take the funicular up (click here for more info), or you would have to do a little workout to reach Sacre-Coeur (climb many flights of stairs).  

Going up the funicular!

Upon reaching Sacre-Coeur, you will be awed by the building and its unusual architecture. Then look behind, and your mind will be blown by the sight that greets you. It is simply breath taking because you are on higher ground and afforded an expansive view of the city. You see buildings great and small and can also spot Pompidou Centre. A great photo-taking spot.

Ta-dah! (I apologize on behalf of the sun, who seems to be napping)

What a view of the city.

One thing to note, strictly no photo taking inside the Basilica. They are really be quite firm (and harsh) about it and if caught, you will be loudly and publicly embarrassed by the security guards and shown the door. If that happens (as it did to my friend and I, who did not know of that rule), just apologise profusely and they might let you stay. Entry into Sacre-Coeur is free, and they are quite packed, so they didn’t need errant visitors.

Sacre-Coeur.

At the end of the tour, you can either choose to visit the crypt underground or ascent to the dome. These, you have to buy tickets but it is inexpensive. You can choose to do either or do both. As I was tired out that day from all the walking, I skipped the dome (300 steps and no lift – bah!) and went down into the crypt. As you descent into the crypt (not a far descent really), the air got cooler and the atmosphere quieter. The place is stark, vacuum-like and a magnet for echoes. There are some tiny chapels and exhibits on display. It is also a ‘storage’ place of sorts, with a few recessed areas stacked with wooden chairs and church paraphernalia. There is a proper chapel in the centre of the crypt, the Pieta chapel, which has some statues and tombs and rows of chairs laid out, but gives the impression of being unused.

In my personal opinion, you would do better to climb to the dome. At least you would be treated to a magnificent view of Paris. The crypt does not add on to the experience. Do visit Sacre-Coeur for the beautiful view and to admire the Romano-Byzantine architectural style. After that, you can tour around the Montmartre area, which has lovely and quaint houses (love love). That will be coming up in the next post!

Official website: http://www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com/english/