The Sacred Heart in Montmartre

Here are five amazing things you can do around the Sacred Heart

1.) Montmartre Walking Tour

To a Parisian, the picturesque district of Montmartre is unlike anywhere else in Paris.
Trust a native to show you why Picasso, Van Gogh and Edith Piaf made Montmartre their home.
Explore the eccentric lifestyles of current and former residents, discover why the locals are so proud of their peculiar vineyard and enjoy the romance of Montmartre – and do not miss one of the best views of Paris.

2.) Get portrayed on the Tertre Plaza

On this little square, so famous and so representative of Montmartre, you will find many painters who draw your portrait in a few minutes. It really is a nice moment, in a pleasant environment.

3.) Take your children to the carrousel

There you have a choice as there are two Carrousels in the Montmartre neighborhood: whether the one below the Sacred Heart or the one above the Abbesses metro station. Your kids will enjoy themselves on a traditional attraction, riding horses or whatever fantastic creature while you can take a break from all the Sightseeing in Paris.

4.) Have a meal at L’Eté en Pente Douce

This probably is the best restaurant of Montmartre: the atmosphere is very cozy and the food is great! The environment is beautiful as you are just a few meters from the Sacred Heart and the gardens surrounding it.

5.) Enjoy a little tour around Montmartre’s Vineyard

The vineyards of Montmartre are typical of the neighborhood. They are a real pride for the locals as they are the most ancient ones in Paris.

Insider’s tips:

• Do not be put off by the queue at the entrance, it moves fast.
• Pay attention to your belongings in case pickpockets are in the area.
• Do not buy anything people offer you on the steps up to the Sacré Coeur and do not sign any petition.

Facts about the Sacred Heart

The construction of the Sacred Heart began in 1875 and ended in 1914, just before WWI. But it was decided in 1873, following the events of the Paris Commune of 1871. In fact, the conservative National Assembly of 1871 decided to establish a new “Moral Order” including Church and religion as pillars of the society, which is why they decided to erect the Sacred Heart over Montmartre.

The religious personalities who led the project said they wanted to wash the sins of the Commune. As the Commune’s revolt had begun on Montmartre, they decided to dedicate the place to Jesus’ Sacred Heart.

Since then, people have prayed to the Sacred Heart of the Christ day and night for more than a century! Nowadays, it is the second most visited monument of France after the Notre-Dame Cathedral with more than 10 million visitors per year. Finally, the architecture of the building is quite original with a Greek cross as base of the building and domes on top of it. Inside, you will find the largest mosaic of France.

How to get there

By Metro:
stations Anvers, Blanche, Pigalle & Abbesses (line 2, dark blue; line 12, dark green)

By Bus:
Lines 30, 54, 67, 74, 80, 95 & montmartrobus”

Near By

1.) Dali Museum:
If you want to admire the wonderful collection of sculptures made by Dali himself, then this is the place to visit. The place is great and the collection enjoyable and impressive at the same time.

2.) Moulin Rouge:
“Welcome to the cabaret!” Here you are going to discover the definitely most famous cabaret of the world: the mythical Moulin Rouge and its attractions! It is the opportunity to spend a good time in a chic atmosphere.

3.) Montmartre Museum:
If you want to know more about Montmartre famous inhabitants, history, culture, stories…etc, then this is the place for you! From the Commune to nowadays, through the vineyards, this museum will answer all your questions about Montmartre.

Why it’s worth visiting

• To enjoy a wonderful view of the entire city of Paris.
• Because this is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris.
• You can listen to street-musicians while sitting on the steps and admiring the view, for free!
• The Montmartre Walking Tour takes you there.