Paris trip 6: Montmartre Hill – The Artist Place

Being a prominent hill in the City of Lights, Montmartre is commonly known for its historical concentration of artists and writers of Paris, a white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur can be seen from far distance or the red windmill of Moulin Rouge. For recent two trip to Paris, I stopped by Montmartre to enjoy the panoramic view of Paris and walk on the poetic streets of this place.

A feature of Montmartre are the steep streets lined with cafeterias, bistros, painting shops or souvenir shops along both sides. Therefore, going (climbing) to the top of Montmartre was a sweaty experience with me.

Wall of Love, a surface decorated with the words "I love you" in all major languages (including my nature Vietnamese). I believed that there is no such artful idea like this in Paris, except Montmartre.

High staircases are another feature of Montmartre.

From such staircases, I could sometime enjoy a corner of Paris from above. There is nothing more romantic than a staircase with yellow leaves of autumn, lights and a view of Paris behind.

With rich art history, Montmartre is still a gathering place for artists who come to showcase as well as sell their works. I really liked paintings about Paris spectacle here, but I could not buy any due to their big size.

A middle-aged artist was painting a portrait of a woman.

I realized that most of the artists here are middle-aged or older. I sincerely pray that they are able to make a full and happy living by working with their artful talents.

Located at the top of Montmartre hill is Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Sacré-Cœur) which is built in a unique Romano-Byzantine architecture.

From the Basilica, I could enjoy the panorama view of Paris with typical Parisian houses and chimneys.

The Eiffel Tower could be seen from this distance.

Not only does Montmartre include painters, but the hill is also a place for street performers for dancing, singing, playing the trumpet or performing circus.

Inspired by Ratatouille movie, I have a dream to see Paris night from above. This is the reason why I have waited on the top of Montmartre for a long time to enjoy the moment Paris gradually lights up. The long-day time of mid-October kept me waiting until 8pm to see my dream moment.

The end of my journey is Moulin Rouge, the birthplace of the well-known can-can dance. I thought it was on the Montmartre, but it's actually right on a broad road at the bottom of the hill. From the outside, it was difficult for me to guess this place is more than 120 years old.