Basílica del Sagrado Corazón
Iconic white basilica atop Montmartre, offering breathtaking Paris views and a charming artistic neighborhood.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Basílica del Sagrado Corazón
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic white basilica atop Montmartre, offering breathtaking Paris views and a charming artistic neighborhood.
"The Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris from its stunning white dome."
🚶♀️ Funicular for the Climb
Save your legs! The funicular offers an easy ride up Montmartre hill to the basilica.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets and stairs abound. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Montmartre.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic White Dome
Montmartre Hill
Gaze at the stunning white dome of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a beacon visible from across Paris.
Panoramic City Views
Basilica Steps
Enjoy breathtaking, sweeping views of Paris from the steps leading up to the basilica.
Montmartre's Artistic Charm
Montmartre Neighborhood
Wander through the artistic streets of Montmartre, discover street artists, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Montmartre
Getting to the Basilica
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Funicular for the Climb
Save your legs! The funicular offers an easy ride up Montmartre hill to the basilica.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets and stairs abound. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Montmartre.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from the basilica steps are incredible. Don't forget your camera!
🎨 Explore Montmartre's Art
Wander the charming streets and discover local artists in Place du Tertre.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Funicular for the Climb
Save your legs! The funicular offers an easy ride up Montmartre hill to the basilica.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
Cobblestone streets and stairs abound. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Montmartre.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from the basilica steps are incredible. Don't forget your camera!
🎨 Explore Montmartre's Art
Wander the charming streets and discover local artists in Place du Tertre.
💧 Self-Cleaning Wonder
The basilica's stone is designed to be cleaned by rainwater, a unique architectural feature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Basílica del Sagrado Corazón for its stunning architecture and the unparalleled panoramic views of Paris it offers. The charming Montmartre neighborhood surrounding it is also a major draw, with its artistic vibe and picturesque streets. Some find the religious symbolism a bit overwhelming, but most agree it's a must-see landmark.
"The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Gijón is a remarkable Catholic temple that serves as one of the city's most distinctive architectural landmarks. Popularly known as "La Iglesiona" due to its impressive proportions and the Asturian tendency to use augmentatives, this neo-Gothic and modernist church was completed in 1918.
The basilica combines multiple architectural influences, including Gaudí's modernist style and Gothic elements. Located on Calle Instituto near the Real Instituto Jovellanos, the church features innovative parabolic arches that were adopted as a solution to the narrowness of the building plot. The structure stands 45 meters long and represents a Neo-Gothic masterpiece.
The most distinctive feature of the basilica is the imposing statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, created by sculptor Serafín Basterra, which crowns the bell tower. At the time of its installation, this was the second-largest Sacred Heart statue in Spain, after the one at Cerro de los Ángeles. The statue is visible from various points throughout Gijón and adds a unique artistic element to the city's skyline. Due to its impressive size, locals sometimes refer to it as "El Santón," and the church is occasionally called "Iglesia del Santo"
I
n 2003, the Holy See officially elevated the church to basilica status in recognition of its historical and artistic merits"
Manuel Gonzalez Vazquez
"Well worth a visit. Some of the Catholic symbology is a bit OTT for non believers but fascinating nonetheless!"
David Ramsbottom
"The church, dedicated to the Sacred Heart, was built between 1918 and 1922 according to the design of Joan Rubió in a combination of Neo-Gothic and Modernist styles. It is famous for its sculpture representing the symbol of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. During the Spanish Civil War, it was used as a prison."
Seokjin Ham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basílica del Sagrado Corazón is located on the highest point in Paris, Montmartre hill. You can reach it via the Paris Métro, with stations like Anvers (Line 2) or Abbesses (Line 12) being popular choices. From there, you can either walk up the hill or take the funicular.
Parking in Montmartre can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach the basilica. If you must drive, look for public parking garages in the surrounding areas.
Yes, you can walk up to the basilica via numerous staircases and charming streets. However, it's a steep climb, so consider the funicular if you prefer an easier ascent.
The Métro is the most convenient way to reach Montmartre. Lines 2 and 12 serve the area well. From the Métro stations, you can easily find signs directing you towards the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
While the basilica itself is accessible, reaching it involves navigating Montmartre's hilly terrain and stairs. The funicular offers a more accessible option for ascending the hill.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main part of the Basílica del Sagrado Corazón is free. However, there is a fee to climb to the dome for panoramic views or to visit the crypt.
The basilica is generally open daily from early morning until late evening. Specific hours can vary slightly, so it's advisable to check the official website or local listings before your visit.
Yes, there is a separate fee to access the dome, which offers spectacular views, and to explore the crypt beneath the basilica.
You can visit the basilica during mass, but you may need to be respectful of worshippers and follow any specific guidelines provided by the church staff.
Photography is generally allowed inside the basilica, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Flash photography is usually prohibited.
📸 📸 Photography
The steps in front of the basilica offer iconic shots with the city skyline. The charming streets of Montmartre, Place du Tertre, and the basilica's exterior architecture are also excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, the dome offers incredible vantage points for photographing Paris. Be aware that it can get crowded, and there might be specific rules about tripods.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography. Sunrise offers a serene atmosphere, while sunset bathes the city in a warm glow.
While general photography is permitted, avoid using flash, especially during services, to respect the sanctity of the place.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the basilica's grandeur and the panoramic views. A zoom lens can be useful for details. A tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions, but check for restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the charming streets of Montmartre can feel like a treasure hunt, with street performers and artists adding to the lively atmosphere. While the basilica itself is a place of worship, its grandeur can still impress younger visitors. Be mindful of the many stairs and inclines; a stroller might be challenging on some paths, but the funicular is a good alternative.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own picnic to enjoy on the steps overlooking the city, rather than dining at the more expensive restaurants in Montmartre. Utilize the Paris Métro for affordable transportation to the area. While the funicular has a small fee, it's often cheaper than a taxi and offers a unique experience. Avoid purchasing souvenirs from the most prominent stalls and look for smaller shops slightly off the main squares for better prices.
❤️ Couples
After visiting the basilica, take a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand through the picturesque streets of Montmartre. Discover hidden courtyards, enjoy a coffee at a charming café, or share a crêpe from a street vendor. The artistic ambiance of the neighborhood adds to the romantic allure, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a quintessential Parisian experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture and History of Sacré-Cœur
+1The basilica's location atop Montmartre hill was chosen for its visibility and symbolic significance. It was intended to be a national monument to peace and a place of pilgrimage. The interior is equally impressive, featuring a massive mosaic of Christ in Majesty above the altar and intricate stained-glass windows. Visitors can also explore the crypt, which houses tombs and religious artifacts, and climb to the top of the dome for unparalleled views of the city.
Beyond its religious and architectural importance, Sacré-Cœur is deeply intertwined with the history and culture of Montmartre. The neighborhood itself is renowned for its artistic heritage, having been home to many famous painters and writers. The basilica serves as a spiritual anchor for the community and a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to admire its beauty and soak in the atmosphere of this historic Parisian hilltop.
Experiencing Montmartre Beyond the Basilica
Montmartre is also home to a variety of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can find everything from quaint bakeries selling traditional French pastries to boutiques offering local crafts and souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Musée de Montmartre, which chronicles the area's artistic past, or the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret, a symbol of Parisian nightlife. The neighborhood's winding streets and picturesque staircases provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
For those seeking a more local feel, venture slightly off the main tourist paths. You might stumble upon quiet residential streets, small parks, or local markets. The area around Rue des Abbesses offers a more authentic Parisian vibe with its local shops and eateries. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to experience the charm of Paris, Montmartre and its iconic basilica offer a memorable journey.
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