Sacre Coeur Paris
The white domes and campaniles of this neo-Byzantine basilica stand out against the Parisian skyline, high above the rooftops of the capital. Its construction at the top of Montmartre was undertaken as a sign of national reconciliation and hope after the bitter defeat suffered by France in the 1870 war against Prussia. Funds were raised by public subscription and work started in 1875, but the basilica took nearly 45 years to build and was inaugurated only in 1919, ironically, at the end of the First World War.

Like most things in Paris, it was built in controversy. However, today the landmark is a symbol of the city herself and her perpetual hope for a better tomorrow. The interior of the basilica is decorated with spectacular mosaics. The view over Paris from the terrace in front of the building is breathtaking. The view from the gallery of the inner dome itself, however, is unforgettable.