Sacré-Coeur in Paris (France) - basilica on top of Montmartre

The National Assembly announced a competition for the design of the building, out of 78 works won the project of Paul Abadie who had previously built two cathedrals in France.

The design of the basilica was modeled on the St. Front in Périgueux. Sacre-Coeur is like a symbol of France's return to power after the defeat in the Franco-Prussian War in 1870-1871.

The Sacre-Coeur church stands on the Montmartre hill, north of the center of Paris. The white domes of the building, reaching 79 meters, can be seen almost from all over Paris. It is right after the Eiffel Tower, the highest point in the city.

From the top of the dome, you can have a panoramic view of the areas 30 km away in all directions.

In front of the temple there are two statues, probably the most liked by the French figures: Joan of Arc and King Ludwik the Holy.

In contrast to the outside, inside the basilica there are beautifully decorated mosaics, designed by Luc-Olivier Merson, including one of the largest mosaics in the world presenting Christ with outstretched arms. The nearby bell called "Savoyarde" is one of the heaviest bells, weighing 19 tons.

The Basilica is a place of pilgrimage. Adjacent to the Basilica, Hotel Ephrem is open to pilgrims who have previously reserved seats.

The building rests on high pillars at 33 meters.