One of the most photographed images of the city, the spectacular white outline of Sacré-Coeur (Sacred Heart) watches over Paris from its highest point. The basilica was built as a memorial to the 58,000 French soldiers killed during the Franco-Prussian War (1870–71) and took 46 years to build, finally completed in 1923 at a cost of 40 million francs (6 million euros). Priests still pray for the souls of the dead here 24 hours a day. Although the interior is less impressive than many other churches in the city, people flock here for the panoramic views – at sunset, in particular, there are few sights in Paris more memorable.
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The Franco-Prussian WarIn 1870, as Prussia made moves to take over Germany, France was also threatened by its military power. Two Catholic businessmen in Paris vowed to build a church dedicated to the Sacred Heart if France were spared the Prussian onslaught. France declared war on Prussia in July, but she was ill-prepared and in September Napoleon III was captured. Parisians held fast, however, defending their city with homemade weapons and eating dogs, cats and rats. But by January 1871 they surrendered. |
Sacré-Coeur dome
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The Dome
The distinctive egg-shaped dome of the basilica is the second-highest viewpoint in Paris after the Eiffel Tower. Reached via a spiral staircase, vistas can stretch as far as 48 km (30 miles) on a clear day.
Statue of Christ
The basilica’s most important statue shows Christ giving a blessing. It is symbolically placed in a niche over the main entrance, above the two equestrian statues.
Stained-Glass Gallery
One level of the great dome is encircled by stained-glass windows. From here there is a grand view over the whole interior.
The Funicular
To avoid the steep climb up to Sacré-Coeur, take the funiculaire cable railway and enjoy the views at leisure. It runs from the end of rue Foyatier, near Square Willette.