Metro: Barbes Rouchechourt or Anvers |
Sacre Coeur
Montmarte
Moulin Rouge |
Overlooking Paris on the hill to the north is the Roman-Byzantine basilica of the
Sacred Heart. dominates Paris. The church is on the site where Saint Denis was beheaded
because of his faith in late IIIrd century. The basilica's construction was financed by
every parish in France.
In 1875, work began. Unfortunately, with the breakout of the First World War, the
consecration planned for 1914 had to be postponed until after the war.
The building's extraordinary whiteness is a result of the material used in its
construction: Chateau-Landon stone bleaches with age.
The front has two bronze equestrian statues of St. Joan of Arc and St. Louis by H.
Lefebvre, and the climax of the overall design is the statue of Christ, his hand raised in
blessing. Since 1885, the prayer of perpetual worship has been the most important part of
the life and activities of this worldwide famous sanctuary.
Follow the signs to the west of the Church to Place du Tertre. This is the artist's
square. It is fun to walk around except for the artists who are constantly trying to get
you to let them draw a portrait of you.
When you walk from the subway station to Sacre Coeur, you will walk through the
Montmarte flea markets. This is alot of fun if you like that kind of stuff.
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