The basilica was funded by public subscription after France's defeat in the 1870 war, conceived as a national act of penance — which is partly why its travertine stone stays strikingly white no matter the weather, self-cleaning with every rainfall. Inside, one of the world's largest mosaics covers the apse ceiling in gold, and outside, the front steps hold one of the best free views in Paris.
- The mosaic of Christ in Glory covering the apse is among the largest in the world, finished in 1922
- Climbing the dome (234 steps, no lift) gets you above the rooftops for a genuine panorama, not just a photo spot
- The steps in front fill with street musicians and picnickers most evenings, especially in summer
- Hours
- Basilica 6:30–22:30 daily, dome 10:00–20:30 (shorter in winter)
- Price
- Basilica free, dome climb €8
- Tip
- Visit at opening time or after 6pm to see the interior without a crowd blocking the mosaic.
Nearby
- P Place du Tertre · square
- M Montmartre vineyard · vineyard
- M Musée de Montmartre · museum