Why Montmatre Has Always Been a High Spot For Paris

October 10th, 2010 No Comments   Posted in Salvador Dalí


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Montmartre has always been a high spot for Paris, physically and artistically. Located in the northern 18th arrondissement, the beautiful Saint Pierre de Montmartre church majestically sits atop the namesake hill that rises to 130 meters in elevation. Even better known is another church that graces the hill, the white-domed Basilica of the Sacré Coeur. The view including this beautiful church is seen in a myriad of famous photographs and paintings and is considered a landmark for the entire Parisian metropolitan area. It has been featured in many films and is home to a vast community of artists. Salvador Dali, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Modigliani all found inspiration from this historically important community.

It is claimed that the church of Saint Pierre de Montmartre is where the famous Jesuit order of priests originated. Visiting tourists usually consider a tour of Montmartre a “must see” event, and many enjoy booking their holiday stays at nearby Paris Hotels and other accommodation convenient to the area. Hotels in Paris are quick to use photos of the area in their welcoming packages and advertising to attract visitors.

One of the most famous views associated with the city is the street leading up to the Sacré Coeur and when set against clear blue Parisian skies, it is easy to understand why this setting is a favorite subject of local artists. Surprisingly, building only began in 1876 and was completed as late as 1912. The area quickly attracted artists and was known for almost scandalous nightclub entertainment, including the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret. Today artists regularly set up their easels down the street from the church to create their artistic visions.

Aside from the history of this area and the excitement of the artist community and nightlife, visitors on holiday come to enjoy a broad panoramic view of Paris from the heights of an area that rises above the metropolitan expanse, a position that allowed Prussian artillery to bombard the city below during the Seige of Paris in 1870. Hotels in Paris will be able recommend several activities to visitors including a ride on the funicular railway — the Funiculaire de Montmartre — and a trip to the small wine producing vineyard in the Rue Saint-Vincent.

Paris Hotels of note in the area include Regyn’s Hotel Montmartre and the Hotel De Flore. Other accommodation can be found at Montmartre residences and bed and breakfast establishments.

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