Montmartre
Île-de-France
Montmartre, located in Paris' northern 18th arrondissement, is a prominent hill rising 130 meters above the city. Renowned for its rich artistic history, it was home to many influential artists including Picasso, Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh during the Belle Époque. The district is crowned by the iconic white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, built from Château-Landon stones that whiten with rain. Montmartre also features the ancient Saint Pierre de Montmartre church, dating back to 1147, which was part of a prestigious abbey. The area is known for its narrow, steep streets and the funicular that eases access to the summit. Historically, Montmartre's name may derive either from "Mount of Mars" due to ancient Roman temples or "Mount of the Martyrs" linked to early Christian history. Today, Montmartre remains a lively tourist attraction with a strong cultural identity, vibrant nightlife, and panoramic views of Paris.
Plan your trip to France with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit Montmartre in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and softer light for photography. Use the Montmartre Funicular to avoid climbing the 222 steps of Rue Foyatier. Consider purchasing tickets in advance for the Sacré-Cœur Basilica to skip lines. The area offers various guided tours including a tram tour with 14 stages and the Petit-train de Montmartre. Discounts may be available for students and seniors at certain attractions.
Interesting facts
- •Montmartre stands at 130 meters, making it the highest point in Paris.
- •The Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur is built from Château-Landon stones that naturally whiten with exposure to water.
- •Saint Ignatius of Loyola and companions took vows here in 1534, founding the Jesuit order.
- •Montmartre was home to many renowned artists including Picasso, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Van Gogh during the Belle Époque.
- •The Montmartre Funicular allows visitors to avoid climbing 222 steps to reach the summit.
History
Montmartre's origins trace back to Gallo-Roman times, with archaeological finds including Roman baths and coins from the 2nd and 3rd centuries.
The Saint Pierre de Montmartre church was founded in the 6th century and first documented in 850.
In the 12th century, King Louis VI established the royal abbey of Montmartre.
The area was annexed by Paris in 1860, becoming part of the 18th arrondissement.
Its name likely evolved from Latin terms referring to either the Roman god Mars or Christian martyrs, reflecting its layered religious and cultural history.
Place Guide
Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur1914
A striking white-domed basilica located at Montmartre's summit, known for its Romano-Byzantine architecture and panoramic views of Paris. Built from Château-Landon stones, it symbolizes hope and faith, completed in the early 20th century.
Saint Pierre de Montmartre Church6th century
One of Paris’ oldest churches, founded in the 6th century and first mentioned in 850. It was part of the royal abbey and holds significant historical and religious importance.
Montmartre Funicular
An inclined elevator that transports visitors from Place Saint-Pierre to the summit near Sacré-Cœur, providing an easier alternative to the 222-step climb up Rue Foyatier.
Artists' Studios and Historic StreetsLate 19th to early 20th century
Montmartre’s narrow, steep streets housed studios and workshops of famed artists such as Picasso, Modigliani, and Toulouse-Lautrec during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to its bohemian atmosphere.
