Sacre coeur paris dome

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica atop Montmartre features a majestic dome providing a panoramic view of Paris, steeped in centuries of history.

About this subject

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched on the highest point in Paris (Montmartre, 130 meters above sea level), is one of the city's most visited landmarks. Its construction began in 1875 after the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune, as an act of penance and national reconciliation. Architect Paul Abadie won a competition with a Romano-Byzantine design, inspired by the basilicas of Ravenna and St. Mark's Basilica in Venice. The main dome, rising 83 meters, is the second tallest structure in Paris after the Eiffel Tower. Inside, the apse features a colossal mosaic of Christ in Majesty, one of the largest in the world. Climbing the 300 spiral steps to the dome rewards visitors with a 360-degree panorama of the French capital. The building stone, travertine from Château-Landon, reacts with rainwater to produce calcita, a self-cleaning phenomenon that keeps the basilica pristine white even after more than a century.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the dome of Sacré-Cœur?

The main dome rises 83 meters, making it the second highest point in Paris after the Eiffel Tower.

Can you climb the dome of Sacré-Cœur?

Yes, there are 300 spiral steps leading to the top, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Paris.

Why is Sacré-Cœur white?

The travertine stone contains calcita, which reacts with rainwater to keep the basilica naturally clean and white.