Travel Space and Architecture: Parisian Day Time

Endless walking and discoveries. Sore feet but still smiling. Saturday was spent exploring the bohemian Montmartre located on a hill north of Paris, Notre Dame, Pompidou area, and Boulevard Haussmann-Lafayette. Sunday was a half day so it was declared the museum day exploring the Louvre and the Duchamp Retrospective @ Pompidou Centre.

Montmartre was definitely my favorite, not because of its current state but because of what it used to be and represent. If you have watched Moulin Rouge, you may know that during the turn of the 20th century this was the center of the 'Bohemian Revolution' - did this actually happen or not happen is another question. But it was certainly the heart of music, art and performance at that time. Renowned artists such as Dali, Monet, Mondrian, Picasso and van Gogh lived and worked here at one point in their life adding to the culture of the area. There is the Montmartre museum and the Salvador Dali museum in the area. This time I didn't have a chance to go, but next time it is going to be at the top of my to-do list.

Streets of Montmartre.

Photo Credit - Josefine Sondergaard

The Sacré-Cœur from top of Pompidou.

Of course when you're in Montmartre, you can't help but not see the Sacré-Cœur. The Sacred Heart looks over Paris for marvelous panoramic views. The steps approaching it are perfect for photoshoots, listening to street musicians or watching street performers. Just be careful with the street salesman, they can be very clingy and sell you something that is not worth its value. If you have time it might be a good idea to get your caricature drawn by one of the many artists awaiting for customers. I think this is the best souvenir you can get from Montmartre. See my previous blogpost for photos from Montmartre.