The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur stands on top of Montmartre hill, the highest point in Paris. It is a very popular landmark and a monument political and cultural, both a national penance for the excesses of the Second Empire and socialist Paris Commune of 1871 crowning its most rebellious neighborhood, and an embodiment of conservative moral order, publicly dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which was an increasingly popular vision of a loving and sympathetic Christ. The Blessed Sacrament is on display above the altar at all times and there have been someone praying here continuously since 1885
It is a beautiful church but photography was not permitted as we visited it during a Mass. Outside it makes a beautiful photograph as the whole church is lit at night.
As we walked around the back we got distracted by a little shopping and eating area and decided to take a break and have a beer! And do a little shopping but I don't think we actually bought anything.
So then, refreshed, we went back to being tourists - the front of the church - which has a wonderful view of Paris
The steps in front of the church are a popular spot both for the view and entertainment that is always there. Last time we were there a young group was performing American folk songs, this time a mime was performing in the street in front of the stairs, pretending to direct traffic and playing tricks on people as they crossed the street. He was really a splendid entertainer!
Walking back down from the other side we came to the beautiful view of the Eiffel Tour - but we found last time we could not get a good shot due to a tower in the way. Kevin managed to get around that a bit - with Judy's help holding him up on the fence!
First, a view of the steps - the other way up to Sacre Coeur - there is also a small funicular that runs up the hill. This area was in Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris movie.
Next entry - down the hill to the Montmartre cemetery and the end of the evening...
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