Crowning the summit of the Montmartre hill, this brilliant-white Romano-Byzantine basilica was begun in 1875 and consecrated in 1919. Its travertine stone whitens with every rain, keeping the facade dazzlingly pale, and it is famous for the vast apse mosaic 'The Triumph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus' and for the sweeping panorama of Paris seen from its dome. After the Eiffel Tower it is one of the most-visited sights in the city; it was classified a French historic monument in 2022 and marked the 150th anniversary of its groundbreaking in 2025. Entry to the nave is free and needs no booking, but it remains a working church with daily Mass and perpetual Eucharistic adoration (since 1885), so quiet and modest dress are expected.
The monumental apse mosaic 'The Triumph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus' (about 475 m², one of the largest mosaics in the world)
The rooftop dome, reached by about 280 steps, offering a wide panorama over Paris (visibility stretches far on clear days)
The travertine facade that grows whiter with rain, with its triple-arched front and equestrian statues of Saint Louis and Joan of Arc
Perpetual Eucharistic adoration maintained since 1885, the grand organ, and the crypt below
The free city view from the terraced steps in front, with buskers and street artists giving the square its atmosphere
Good to know
SafetyThe steps in front of the basilica and the nearby metro stations (Anvers, Barbès, Pigalle) are among the busiest pickpocket zones in Paris. Wear your bag in front, keep it zipped, and stay especially alert when you stop to take photos.
CautionAt the foot of the steps, men often try to tie a 'friendship bracelet' string around your wrist and then demand money; petition-signing requests and street shell-game gambling are also common. Don't offer your hand, avoid eye contact, and keep walking.
SeasonIn peak summer and on weekends—especially around sunset—the steps and dome queues get very long and crowded. An early-morning (around 8 a.m.) or weekday visit is far more pleasant, and in summer watch for heat and dehydration on the climb.
RulesThe dome has no elevator and requires climbing about 280 steps up a narrow staircase; it closes for a midday break and may shut in bad weather. The nave is free and needs no booking, but the dome and crypt are ticketed separately (mostly on-site, cash-friendly), so check the official site the day before for opening status.
MannersThis is an active church with Mass and continuous adoration, so shoulders and knees should be covered and visitors must stay quiet inside. Photography is restricted indoors, and photos, flash, and tripods are forbidden during services—follow the posted guidance.
SafetyAvoid dark, empty back alleys and stairways late at night, and refuse unlicensed taxis and pushy touts. Stick to well-lit main streets and use the funicular or metro rather than the quiet paths on the back of the hill.
Practical info
Take metro line 2 to Anvers and ride the funicular from Square Louise-Michel (it accepts a normal metro ticket or Navigo) to skip the 222-step climb; line 12 to Abbesses is also close. The nave is generally open free from early morning until late evening, while the dome and crypt are ticketed on-site—but hours, prices, and dome operation change with the season and weather, so always confirm the latest details on the official website the day before your visit.
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