Sacré-Cœur, Catholic basilica on Montmartre hill, Paris, France.
The Sacré-Cœur is a Roman Catholic basilica perched on Montmartre hill in northern Paris, recognized by its white travertine facades and rounded domes that blend Romanesque and Byzantine forms. The building occupies one of the highest points in the city and rises above surrounding streets and rooftops with multiple domes and a tall bell tower.
Construction began in 1875 after the Franco-Prussian War as a national vow of penance and took four decades to complete, with consecration in 1919. Architect Paul Abadie designed the building after Byzantine churches but died long before completion, leaving several successors to carry the project forward.
The basilica draws both worshippers and travelers who come to sit quietly in the dim interior, light candles, or attend mass with organ music and choir. Locals often stop by for a few minutes of prayer during their daily routine, while groups of pilgrims gather at various chapels throughout the building.
The basilica opens daily from early morning until late evening and admission to the main nave is free, though separate tickets are needed for the dome and crypt. The climb up involves either a long outdoor staircase from the base of the hill or a funicular railway that begins near the Anvers metro station.
The white appearance of the facade renews itself with every rainfall because the travertine stone releases calcite when it gets wet. Inside hangs one of the heaviest bells in France, weighing over 18 tons and rung only on special feast days.
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