Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Paris : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Paris, the one and only city of love, is home to some of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the world. One of these gems is the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a breathtakingly beautiful Catholic Church located in the Montmartre district. Built between 1873 and 1914, this beautiful structure is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. In this blog, we’ll explore some interesting facts about the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and its history, give a brief overview of its architecture, provide interesting information about its significance in the Catholic Church, and provide tips to make the most of your visit.

Interesting Facts About Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Paris

1. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica was intended to be a symbolic act of atonement and contrition after the upheavals of the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune in the late 1800s.

2. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is built of stone from the prestigious Château-Landon quarry – the same quarry used for the construction of the Statue of Liberty in New York City and the Eiffel Tower.

3. The front facade of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is decorated with mosaics representing the Assumption of Mary into Heaven – the largest mosaic of its kind in the world!

4. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is home to the heart-shaped Relic of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which was presented to the Basilica in 1895 during the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

5. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is the second highest church in Paris and has one of the largest mosaic collections in the world, with more than three thousand gold-plated tesseerae (tiled pieces).

6. The Crypt and Sacristy of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica contain several historical manuscripts and documents, including a torch from the Bastille, a personal gift from Parisian sculptor Auguste Rodin, and a 15th century book featuring illuminated illuminations.

7. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica houses the largest bell in Paris, which is rung every day at the start of mass. The bell, which is over two meters in diameter, was originally part of the bell tower of the demolished Church of Saint-Sulpice.

8. The steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which are known as the “Gardens of Montmartre” or “Ascension of Jesus”, are a favorite hangout spot for Parisians, offering wonderful views of the Montmartre area.

9. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica welcomes thousands of visitors each year, making it one of the Gold List award winners for “Most Popular Tourist Attraction in Paris” for 2019.

10. At the base of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica lies a memorial to the fallen soldiers who fought in the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune.

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History & Information About Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Paris

Sacré-Cœur Basilica, located at the summit of the Butte Montmartre, is a Roman Catholic basilica dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Built between 1875 and 1919, the basilica was constructed as a solemn reminder of a tumultuous period in France’s history. It was meant to atone for the sins of the French people during the savage repression of the Paris Commune in 1871.

The basilica is built in an idealized Romano-Byzantine style and is surrounded by domes, campaniles, and intricate sculptures. Inside, the church is as impressive as the exterior, with beautiful stained glass windows, a large organ, and intricate frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings.

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica took more than forty years to complete and, in order to finance the construction, the French government asked people to donate. But, rather than being forced to contribute, the people of France actually threw themselves into helping. Over two hundred thousand people donated private funds to pay for the basilica’s construction.

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica was consecrated in 1919 by the Archbishop of Paris and it has become a symbol of hope and protection for the people of France. It is now a French national monument and attracts millions of visitors each year. The basilica is especially popular with young people who seek solace during times of difficulty. It has been said that the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a symbol of “eternal love for France and all her people”.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Paris

1. Getting There:The closest metro station to Sacré-Cœur Basilica is “Anvers”. It is on Metro line 2. Alternatively, you can take the funicular (elevated train) from Place du Tertre to the entrance of Sacré-Cœur.

2. When to Go:If you want to visit the basilica, it is best to go in the morning. Opening hours are from 6am to 10pm, so you will get the best experience before the crowds arrive.

3. What to See:The full interior of the basilica is a spectacular sight. There is a large collection of religious art and artifacts, as well as intricate mosaic decorations. You can also enjoy seeing the beautiful domed roof and the stunning views of Paris from the basilica’s terrace.

4. Entry Fees: Entrance to the basilica is free. There may be fees for certain activities, such as tours or viewing the upper galleries.

5. Other Tips:If you are visiting Sacré-Cœur in the summer months, be prepared for large crowds. If possible, try to visit during the week to avoid the overwhelming numbers of tourists. Add a few francs in the donation boxes to help support the running costs of the basilica.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sacré-Cœur Basilica – Paris

Q: What is Sacré-Cœur Basilica?
A: The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a Roman Catholic church located at the summit of the butte Montmartre in Paris, France. It is a popular and renowned landmark of the city, offering impressive views across the entire capital.

Q: When was Sacré-Cœur Basilica built?
A: Construction of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica began in 1875 and completed in 1914. The building was consecrated as a basilica in 1919.

Q: What are the opening hours of Sacré-Cœur Basilica?
A: The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is open daily from 6am-10.30pm, with visiting hours until 7.45 pm.

Q: Are there any places to eat near Sacré-Cœur Basilica?
A: Yes, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes around the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Some of the more popular places are Café Montmartre, Café des Abbesses and Le Petit Soufflé.

Q: Is there an admission fee to visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica?
A: No, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is open to the public free of charge. There is also no admission fee for visiting the dome of the basilica which provides panoramic views across Paris.

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