Review: Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre

Tell me: What’s this place all about?
The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre, more succinctly known as Sacré-Coeur, is a Catholic basilica that sits on the highest hill in Paris, in the Montmartre neighborhood. Its height is topped only by the Eiffel Tower. The basilica's distinct white travertine façade of Château-Landon stone gives the Romano-Byzantine structure a unique look among Parisian monuments. The church is open all day to anyone who wishes to visit, with special programs available for pilgrimages and overnight worship. Sacré-Coeur receives millions of visitors a year, so expect a busy and bustling environment outside (and a potential wait to enter).

Wow. What’s it like being there?
Sacré-Coeur is a very active house of worship, with no photography or filming allowed indoors, so the vibe is more spiritual than sightseeing. It's hard not to be awed by the colorful ceiling, which is covered by the largest mosaic in France.

Pretty interesting! Is there a guide involved?
There are no guided tours allowed inside, to maintain a quiet atmosphere for prayer, but Sacré-Coeur offers a free audio guide that you can download to your phone in advance of your visit.

Who comes here?
Sacré-Coeur attracts a wide range of visitors, from those making pilgrimages to tourists who wish to see the panoramic views of Paris from the dome. Because it takes some effort to get to the top of the hill in Montmartre (take the funicular train if the 300 steps are too much for you), people typically spend a bit of time at Sacré-Coeur and the surrounding area.

Did it meet expectations?
Sacré-Coeur is a more recent addition to the monuments of Paris, having been started in the 1870s (and not consecrated until after World War I, in 1919). But it has quickly become a must-visit, thanks not only to the building's distinctive architecture but also the sweeping vistas of Paris its elevated position affords. And its role as an active Catholic church adds a different dimension to the visit. History buffs will enjoy learning the story behind the building of the church (its creation was spurred by the loss of the Franco-Prussian War).

Got it. So, then, what, or who, do you think it’s best for?
The hill of Montmartre has been a sacred religious place for centuries, starting with the Druids and the Romans. Many visitors come for religious or spiritual reasons, while others just want expansive views of Paris, and to see the iconic building up close. It's a very different experience from visiting Notre-Dame (or any of the other Gothic cathedrals). Save some energy for climbing to the top of the dome and down into the crypt—it's worth it.