The Sacré-Coeur is a Roman Catholic basilica and popular landmark in Paris dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The basilica is located at the summit of the butte Montmartre, and is at the highest point in the city.

The Sacré-Coeur is one of Paris's most characteristic landmarks and has been the subject of much controversy. One Parisian called it "a lunatic's confectionery dream," while an offended Zola declared it "the basilica of the ridiculous." However, the Sacré-Coeur has had warm supporters as well, including poet Max Jacob and artist Maurice Utrillo. Utrillo never grew tired of drawing and painting the Basilica, and he and Jacob visited regularly to pray.

Atop the hill of Montmartre, its multiple gleaming white domes and bell tower loom over Paris like a 12th-century Byzantine church, however surprisingly, the Basilica is not that old. After France's 1870 defeat by the Prussians, the Basilica was planned as a votive offering to cure France's misfortunes. Rich and poor alike contributed money to build it. Construction began in 1876, and though the church wasn't consecrated until 1919, perpetual prayers of adoration have been made at the Church every day and night since 1885.

The interior is brilliantly decorated with mosaics. There is a striking mosaic design of Christ on the ceiling and the mural of his Passion at the back of the altar is breathtaking. The stained-glass windows were shattered during the struggle for Paris in 1944 but have been well replaced. The crypt contains what some of the devout believe is Christ's sacred heart - hence, the name of the Church.

view the official website for the Sacre Coeur.