Sacré-Cœur, Paris

Perched atop the hill of Montmartre, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, commonly known as Sacré-Cœur, is a revered landmark and a beacon of spiritual solace. This Roman Catholic church, with its white domes that gleam in the sunlight, offers not just a place of worship but also a panoramic view of the city below.

Construction of the Sacré-Cœur began in 1875 and was completed in 1914, consecrated after the end of World War I in 1919. The basilica was erected as a symbol of hope and penance after the Franco-Prussian War and the chaos of the Paris Commune. Designed by architect Paul Abadie, the basilica combines Romanesque and Byzantine styles, and its iconic white color comes from the Château-Landon stones used in its construction, which whiten with age.

The interior of the Sacré-Cœur is just as stunning as its exterior, with one of the world's largest mosaics depicting Jesus Christ with outstretched arms. The grand pipe organ is another highlight, considered to be one of the most remarkable in Paris, contributing to the sacred music that fills the sanctuary.

Visitors can climb to the top of the dome for a small fee, ascending 300 steps to be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Paris. The dome is the second-highest viewpoint in Paris, after the Eiffel Tower.