Basilique du Sacre Coeur – Paris, France

Sacre Coeur – Paris

Established in the mood of nationalism and hope that characterized the harsh Franco-Prussian War of 1870, it was only completed in 1914 and only opened in 1919 after World War 1. It was built as a sort of “penance” to the Sacred Heart with the architects believing that France’s defeats were of a more spiritual as opposed to political nature.

During the Nazi occupation it was open around the clock and silent protest vigils stood watch despite the bombing that took out the stained-glass windows.  Inside is one of the largest mosaics in the world depicting Jesus and the Apostles.  It is built beside St. Pierre de Montmarte, a monastery dating from the Middle Ages.