Paris: Montmartre and Sacre Coeur

In continuation of our two-week jaunt through Europe, we followed up Barcelona with a week spent in Paris.  This was our second time visiting the city, so we were very excited for the opportunity to see some of the things we missed the first time, plus revisit a few favorites.  One place in particular that was new to us this time around was the charming little neighborhood of Montmartre.  Montmartre is actually the name of a hill, which is topped by the Sacre Coeur basilica.  While the basilica is certainly gorgeous, the area is best known as a gathering place for artists.  Picasso, van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas all congregated here, to name just a few.

Sacre Coeur Basilica

Sacre Coeur Basilica

A narrow street in Montmartre

The last remaining vineyard in Paris

One of two remaining windmills

Le Bateau Lavoir - the studio where Picasso worked

Barcelona Revisited

We kicked off a two-week European tour with a return visit to Barcelona.  On the itinerary this time was more of Gaudi's architecture, and of course just wandering the city.  First stop was the Sagrada Familia, a huge church designed by Gaudi that was began in the late 19th century and is still not completed (hence all the scaffolding and cranes).  However, when you notice the extreme detailing, it's not surprising that construction is taking so long.

We also toured Casa Mila (also known as La Pedrera), an apartment building designed by Gaudi that's known for its undulating facade and unique rooftop design.