Montmartre - Sacré Coeur, Paris

After climbing all those steps and making my way via the steep little roads, it was nice to discover that there was not only the Sacre-Coeur Basilica , but a lovely artist community at the top of the hill. Many of them are profile artists, but we did find a few that was selling some lovely landscape paintings too.

Staying close by, we started out early morning. It was really quiet when we got to the top, which was maybe a good thing, as I was totally out of breath navigating our way to the top through the very steep little roads and up those stairs. I did not know about the funicular, but then again, I needed the excercise.

We discovered the guy that sells "un croque-monsieur" which is like an open toasted ham and cheese with a mustard filling between. This is one of the best things I discovered whilst in Paris.
It was extremely quiet when we got to the top, maybe because it was rather early in the morning, but we had the place to ourselves just about, what a pleasure.

Whilst walking around we came across these flower and plant sellers. They were having a heat wave in Paris when we were there, so this was a very welcome reprieve from the baking sun and the immense heat of 39 degrees.

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Getting to Montmarte is not one of the easiest things to do in Paris. A very colourful area, but to get to the top of the hill, one must do quite a steep hiking bit if you do not want to use the stairs. This is also the site where you will find the very famous and lovely Sacre-Coeur Basilica. This area was also home to a once very thriving artist community, I think that is where it got its very bohemian feel about it from. This area exudes history and Gallic charm, an area that you should try not to miss out on when visiting gay Paris

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The Basilique du Sacré Coeur or otherwise known as the Sacred Heart Basilica was erected as a national guilt offering in expiation for the blood shed during the Paris Commune and Franco-Prussian war of 1870 - 1871. It was mainly financed by French Catholics. I found it rather interesting that the basilica was only consecrated in 1919.

From the top of the Dome, there is a panoramic view in all directions extending over 30 kilometers, but like most things here is cost to go up.

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A visit to Montmartre, which is situated high on the only hill overlooking Paris, has long been famous for its artists, and its magnificant Basilica du Sacre Coeur, is an absolute must for all visitors to Paris. Just next to it, is the Place du Tertre an area that is usually completely covered with tables and bright umbrellas and artists.

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Montmartre was a little village on the outskirts of the city of Paris until it was discovered by artists in the nineteenth century.
Montmartre is one of the few hills in Paris, and the views from the church square are magnificent. In fact, next to the Eiffel Tower, Sacré Coeur is the second highest point in Paris.
Montmartre still retains its village qualities. Old houses jostle together in its narrow lanes.

In the 19th century, artists liked the quality of light on this hill, out of the smoke, grime and noise ofthe centre of Paris. Many famous painters lived and worked here, Van Gogh, Lautrec, Seurat, Monet etc.

It is still the haunt of artists but today these are painters who provide the tourist market with souvenirs. The Place du Tertre at the foot of the hill comes to life with artists' easels during the afternoons. It is also reputed to be the place in Paris where you are most likely to have your pocket picked .... so be careful when you visit!
The streets surrounding Sacré Coeur and Montmartre come to life in the evening. The police presence keeps a watchful eye