|
Paris |
|
Basilique
du Sacré-Coeur
A
beautiful basilica on the top of Montmartre
|
"After
the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, it was proposed to construct
a church to the Sacred Heart on the butte Montmartre. Although
originally the fund raising was by public subscription, in 1873,
the National Assembly passed a law declaring its construction
to be a state undertaking. The work was brought to a successful
conclusion thanks to the Assembly and to the countless offerings
sent from all over France.
Of
the 78 entries in the competition for its design, the one chosen
was by the architect named Abadie. He was already well known
for his restoration of the St-Front Cathedral in Périgueux.
The
plans for the new basilica called for an edifice of Romano-Byzantine
style, and the first stone was laid in 1875. Abadie himself died
in 1884 with only the foundation having been completed.
Completed
in 1914, it was not consecrated until 1919, after World War I
had ended. The final cost was 40 million francs. Since 1885,
there has been perpetual adoration and worship within.
The
interior of the church contains one of the world's largest mosaics,
and depicts Christ with outstretched arms. The nearby bell tower
contains the "Savoyarde", cast in Annecy in 1895 and
one of the world's heaviest at 19 tons.
Montmartre,
where the first martyrs of Paris met their death, and site of
a famous abby of Benedictine nuns, was visited by Saint Bernard,
Saint Joan of Arc, Saint Ignatius Loyola, Saint Francis Xavier,
Berulle (found of the Oratorians) and Olier.
From
the top of the Dome, there is a panoramic view in all directions
extending over 30 kilometers."
If
you ever have the chance to go to Paris, don't miss a visit to
the Sacré-Coeur on a Sunday when a beautiful mass take
place in the morning and in the evening. |
|
|
A
beautiful view of Montmartre and the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. |
|
Partial
view of Paris seen from the top of Montmartre. |
|
|
|
The
Basilique and the stairway that leads to it. |
|
The
Sacré-Coeur seen from another angle. |
|
|
|
An
aerial view of the Sacré-Coeur |
|
