The Story:

One of most impressive churches in France is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Basilique du Sacre Coeur), a minor basilica in the Romano-Byzantine style. Located on the top of Montmartre hill, the world-famous structure offers a sweeping view of Paris. A funicular connects the bottom of Montmartre hill and the entrance to Sacre Coeur Basilica. The Basilica rests on the site where the first bishop of Paris, St. Denis, was beheaded (it is said that he picked up his head and carried it 2 miles to the spot where the Abbey Church of St. Denis now stands). The Basilica was built to fulfill a national vow to make reparation for the sins of France following its defeat in the Franco-Prussian War. The vow was approved in 1872 by the Cardinal Archbishop of Paris and the French Parliament approved construction in 1873. August 1, 1885 marked the first day of perpetual adoration, which has continued through to today. The apse mosaic of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Grand Organ, considered to be one of the best in Europe, are two of the most striking interior features of this Basilica.

Accommodation: There are thousands of hotels from budget to 5* in the city of Paris.

Transportation: The Basilica of Sacre Coeur is located in the 18th Arrondissment of Paris, at the summit of Montmartre. It is accessible via the Paris Metro/bus/cable car: Jules Joffrin (M12) + Montmartrobus (Place du Tertre stop); Pigalle (M12, M2) + Montmartrobus (Norvins stop): Anvers (M2) + cable car or steps, Abbesses (M12) + cable car or steps. City bus: 30-31-80-85 (Anvers Sacre-Coeur bus stop at the foot of Montmartre).