Sacré-Cœur

Today we visited Basilique Sacré-Cœur (translated Basilica of the Sacred Heart) in the Montmarte section of Paris. Sacré-Cœur is a beautiful Roman Catholic Church and a very well known landmark in the area. The first stone was laid in 1875, however the church wasn’t completed until 1914 and didn’t officially open for worship until 1919.

The church is situated on top of a hill with nice panoramic views of Paris. Outside, the church is heavily geared toward tourist entertainment with a carousel, juggler, human statue and a guitarist (singing American hits such as “Hotel California”). However, inside the church it is a completely different atmosphere. Sacré-Cœur is open for perpetual prayer and worship. Lit mostly by candlelight, the church was silent as everyone explored and admired the beauty of the stained glass and statues throughout. Unfortunately, pictures were not allowed inside the church.

We were then able to walk around and explore more of Montmarte and the area surrounding the church. What a neat little place! There were a ton of markets, flower shops, bakeries and unique boutiques. Unfortunately, it was getting late and getting colder by the minute, so we didn’t get to spend as much time there as we had hoped, but we can’t wait to go back!