Romantic hotel in Montmartre:
Discover the Authentic Charm of the Butte Montmartre

Montmartre district

History of Montmartre : A district with a facinating past

The history of Montmartre is very old but it can be traced back to a singular event in the history of Paris, the Commune. This revolt was bloodily repressed in May 1871. And it is in repentance of the acts of rebellion and to sound a return to moral order that the Basilica of the Sacred Heart was erected, today a symbol of this historic district.

Built between 1875 and 1891, with some parts only completed in 1923, the basilica has become a religious landmark of the capital. But in its surroundings, the Paris that has settled there since the second half of the 19th century is more artistic.

While Montmartre has been shaped by major historical events, such as the Paris Commune and the construction of the Sacré-Cœur, it has never remained trapped in the past. On the contrary, from the late 19th century onwards, it reinvented itself as a vibrant hub of artistic creation. Painters, writers, and musicians found in Montmartre an ideal place for expression, transforming its cobbled streets and lively squares into true centers of inspiration.

Montmartre district

Atmosphere of artists

Painters, sculptors and writers gathered in Montmartre on the Place du Tertre or in the most famous artists' residence of the time, the Bateau-Lavoir. Camille Pissarro, Pablo Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec, Maurice Utrillo, Van Gogh, Amedeo Modigliani and many others made, until the 30s, the Montmartre artist and Bohemian that we still know. Even back then, entertainment venues such as the Moulin Rouge and the famous concert halls gave rhythm to life at the bottom of the hill.

The golden age of cabarets

From the late 19th century, cabarets and theaters brought Montmartre to life after dark. The Moulin Rouge, inaugurated in 1889, became the temple of the French Cancan, immortalized in the works of Toulouse-Lautrec. Other legendary establishments like Le Chat Noir and Le Lapin Agile welcomed poets, musicians, and singers who left a lasting mark on French cultural history. Today, Montmartre’s bars and cabarets continue this festive tradition, blending culture and conviviality.

Montmartre, between past and present

More recently, Montmartre has continued to inspire creators. Serge Gainsbourg, an icon of French music, drew inspiration from the area before leaving his mark on French pop culture. Additionally, Amélie (2001) immortalized Montmartre on the big screen, featuring famous spots like Café des Deux Moulins and further cementing the neighborhood’s place in collective imagination.
 

Montmartre district

The secret streets and hidden passages of Montmartre

Wandering through Montmartre’s small streets is a unique experience. Away from the main boulevards, you’ll discover hidden staircases, flowered alleys, and colorful facades. Some of the most charming spots include:

• Rue de l’Abreuvoir and La Maison Rose, a famous and photogenic location.
• Villa Léandre, a peaceful lane resembling an English village in the heart of Paris.
• Le Passe-Muraille, a statue paying tribute to Marcel Aymé’s novel.

Montmartre district

Gastronomy and local specialties

Montmartre is filled with excellent places to savor French cuisine. Some must-visit spots include:

• Le Consulat: A traditional bistro with a warm ambiance.
• Crêperie Brocéliande: Perfect for enjoying delicious Breton crêpes.
• Le Refuge des Fondus: A quirky restaurant where wine is served in baby bottles, and cheese fondue is enjoyed in a lively setting.

Feel free to ask our reception team for recommendations on the best restaurants in the area!