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Must See Sights in Montmartre

Popular Attractions in one of Paris' Trendiest Neighborhoods

© Katie Fanuko

Windmill in Montmartre, Daniel Wolfram
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to Montmartre, an area known for its energetic nightlife.

Located in the 18th arondissment (district) of Paris, Montmartre sits atop a hill overlooking the city.

Famous for it's quaint, artistic atmosphere, the area has been appointed as an historic district. Montmartre is definitely maintaining its bohemian heritage while still embracing a sense of modernism.

Montmartre is best known for the infamous Moulin Rouge and the Sacred Coeur Basilica. It was also the stomping ground for the likes of Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, and Salvador Dali.

Here are some of the sights in Montmartre that can't be missed:

Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is arguably the most famous cabaret hall in the world. Built in 1889, it was where Paris' elite went to see and be seen. A number of artists found inspiration here, including Henri Toulouse-Lautrec. Performers such as Josephine Baker, Jane Avril and Edith Piaf have all participated in shows at the Moulin Rouge. Today, the landmark keeps the cabaret tradition going strong with its current show 'Feerie' which features 60 dancers from throughout the world.

Sacred Coeur Basilica

The basilica began construction in 1875 and was not completed until 1914. It is dedicated to the 58,000 soldiers that lost their lives during the Franco-Prussian War. Built in the Romano - Byzantine style, the basilica was consecrated in 1919 after World War I had ended. One of the most prominent features is the basilica's outer dome that offers visitors a breath-taking panoramic view of the city below.

L' Elysee Montmartre

A former 19th century music hall, L' Elysee Montmartre is one of the most prominent music venues in Paris. Everyone from Daft Punk to Wu -Tang Clan has taken the stage at this hot spot. The venue brings in music acts from all over the world and features every genre from indie rock to soul. L' Elysee Montmartre also holds balls monthly, on the second and fourth Saturdays featuring DJ's accompanied by an orchestra.

Montmartre Cemetery

Opened in 1825, Montmartre Cemetery is where some of France's famous artists and writers are spending eternity. Cemeteries have actually been banned in Paris since the late 18th century and since then they have been built along the city's outskirts. A popular tourist destination, Montmartre Cemetery is the final resting place to the likes of Alexander Dumas (1824-1895), Theophile Gautier (1811-1872) and Edgar Degas (1934 -1917).

Cinema Studio 28

Originally a cabaret, Studio 28 was converted into a theater in 1928. Though there have been some renovations over the years (like Dolby sound), the theater still retains its historic atmosphere. The theater has a history of showing avant guard and independent films. Often films are shown in their original language with French subtitles (so non-French speaking audience members can still enjoy the show). If some of the area looks like it came out of Amelie, it did. A few scenes were filmed at Studio 28.


The copyright of the article Must See Sights in Montmartre in France Travel is owned by Katie Fanuko. Permission to republish Must See Sights in Montmartre in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.





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