Montmartre and "Trendy Paris"

This weekend I walked around the Montmartre neighborhood and what one of my guide books calls "Trendy Paris." It was a little cold to be walking around for a long time (probably around 30 degrees) so I hope to go back later in ther semester when it's warmer, greener, and not so gray. Although, I guess I shouldn't complain because I know it's below zero and snowing back at home!

Montmartre
The most important thing to see in this neighborhood is Sacré Cœur. It's a church on top of a hill from which you can see the entire city. During orientation, I found out that this church is relatively new, having been built in the late 1800s, compared to other buildings in Paris. Although it is a Catholic church, it wasn't built as a sign of faith or devotion. Instead, it was built as a way for the government to show its citizens its power over them. So, the church was built without any regard for the existing streets, houses, or other buildings. 

Basilique de Sacré Cœur

View from the top of Sacré Cœur

We also went to look at all the painters and shops at a square near the church. I was here the last time I was in Paris and loved it so it was necessary to come back. 

A few blocks from Sacré Cœur is the Moulin Rouge. There's not much to actually see here other than the building (unless you are going to an actual show). During the day, this neighborhood is bustling and fun to walk around, but during the night it's really sketchy. Well, the red light district is in this area so I guess the sketchiness makes sense.

While I was walking around, I saw the first specialty shops since I've been here. I finally came across a fromagerie (cheese shop) and a place selling glaces artisanales (artisan ice cream), both of which I can't wait to try!


Trendy Paris
Like I said, this is how my book described the section of Paris that includes Centre Pompidou, Beaubourg, Chatelet, and several of museums.

Centre Pompidou is a museum of modern/contemporary art. It was very...interesting. Nothing at all like the Louvre or Musee d'Orsay. After a while, I stopped trying to figure it out and just accepted it for what it was. I can't say I'm a fan of modern art but it was a good experience either way.

Entrance to Centre Pompidou

There were a lot of different forms of art, not just paintings or sculptures. And there was a lot of nudity. I would have to say my favorite part was the Picasso section. You always read about him at school and recognize his fame, but to actually see his paintings in front of you is surreal.

Picasso