Overlooking the city of Paris, at 400 feet above sea level, Montmartre is best known for its white domed Basilica Sacre Coeur. Ancient records indicate that this hill has been occupied at least since the 8th century, although 1975 excavations found coins and the remains of a major wall dating from the third (as well as remains of Roman baths from the second century). Bishop St. Denis was decapitated on this hill in 250 AD for trying to preach Christianity. The first church built on this site, known as Mont de Mars (Mont of Martyrs), was constructed sometime around the third century. In 1134, the St. Pierre de Montmartre Church , where the Jesuit order was founded, was built on land next to the current basilica. Construction of Sacre Coeur began in 1875 but was not completed until 1914. We had some prior knowledge of Montmartre and Sacre Coeur, and wanted to make sure that we visited during our stay in Paris. An easy train ride took us to the base of the hill and the more modern neighborhood that has grown up around it. We decided to climb up the hill rather than take the available funicular. While there are a "lot" of stairs to climb, the views were worth it. And the old neighborhood of Montmartre around the Basilica is quite quaint. This was a lovely day and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Looking up Montmartre hill towards then Sacre Coeur Basilica. Climbing those stairs was a bit of a challenge but we enjoyed the exercise. Side view of the Basilica from the streets of the charming neighborhood of Monmartre. While much younger than some of the churches, mosques, and temples we have visited on our journey, Sacre Coeur is still beautifully decorated. This close up view of the fresco above the main altar shows the exquisite workmanship that went into its creation. One of the two organ lofts within Sacre Coeur. Architect's scale model of the basilica. Even the main doors are wonderfully sculptured. The streets of Montmartre village, next to the basilica, were a delight to explore. Le Ceni's is where we decided to have lunch. The prices were reasonable and the service was excellent. Celine, our waitress, not only took care of serving us lunch, but also helped us with our French. The Jesuit Order was founded here in St. Pierre de Montmartre church, located next to the basilica. The main altar and stained glass windows of St. Pierre de Monmartre. Notre Dame de Montmartre statue dedicated for her protection of the hill during bombings of World War II
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Carl and Lorraine Aveni are two retirees planning on traveling through Europe for at least one year.
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