Sacre Coeur

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris (Sacre Coeur) is a minor basilica built in honor of the French citizens who lost their lives during the Franco-Prussian War.

It is located on a hill in the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre and attracts millions of tourists every year.

Since the dawn of time Montmartre has been a place of worship and devotion, for peoples as diverse as the Druids, the Gauls, and even the Romans with their temples dedicated to Mars and Mercury.

Cathedral Architecture

Built in the Romano-Byzantine style and adorned with several domes, the central one rising 80 meters high, the basilica began construction in 1875, following the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 in which France was defeated, and was not completed until the end of World War I.

Its bell, «la Savoyarde», is the largest in France and one of the heaviest in the world.

In the crypt lie the tombs of the cardinals and archbishops who initiated the construction of the basilica.

For the construction of this impressive Catholic church se utilizo travertino, a sedimentary rock that continuously seeps calcite, ensuring the building's permanent whiteness despite erosion and pollution.

Breathtaking Views over Paris

Sacré-Cœur is the highest point in the entire city and one of the places that offers the best views of Paris. From here you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views from several of the locations what to see in Paris.

You can stay in this charming area of Paris by following our recommendations for budget hotels in Montmartre.

You can discover all of this and much more on a free tour of Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur. An expert Spanish-speaking guide will share all the secrets hidden in this Parisian neighborhood.

Montmartre Funicular

You can climb the hill on foot, with its nearly 200 steps up to the doors of the cathedral, or by taking the Montmartre Funicular.

You board it at the Place Saint Pierre (view map, where the gardens begin, stretching from the doors of the cathedral all the way down.

Both the funicular and Sacré-Cœur are among those must-see places in Paris for a first visit that you simply cannot miss.

Useful information about the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris

Here you will find the essential information with up-to-date opening hours and prices so you can enjoy your visit without any issues.

Prices

• Church entrance free
• Guided tour €12 buy here
• Climb to the dome €7

Opening Hours

• Every day, Basilica: 6:00 am – 10:30 pm.
• Dome and crypt 9:00 am – 5:45 pm

Address

How to get there

• Metro station Anvers or Abbesses
• Buses 30, 31, 54, 80, 85  
• Montmartre Funicular