#12 The Hidden Montmartre

About the Hidden Montmartre Tour

Nowadays, Montmartre is known worldwide for its artistic influence and iconic venues. But the story of the hill is far from being a bed of roses! Indeed, It has been the scene of many significant events and holds a special place in the memories of Parisians… for better or worse!

Agricultural and Religious past of Montmartre

The hill was once a big village populated mostly by winegrowers, quarry workers and farmers due to its soil rich in gypsum and water sources. Its position overlooking Paris made it also a religious stronghold, home of the legend of Saint-Denis and counting numerous abbeys.

Montmartre at the heart of a milestone civil war

Like Belleville, the other famous hill, and many outskirts, Montmartre is integrated into Paris in 1859 by Napoleon III and the prefect Baron Haussmann. From then, this will only exacerbate the resentment of the local working class population towards the bourgeoisie, who was in favor of a government of Paris from the remote Versailles. This will result in the civil war events of la Semaine sanglante in the context of the siege of Paris by the Prussians in 1871.

Montmartre as an Artistic Hub

In the early 20th century Montmartre became an important artistic center. Indeed, music-halls and artistic studios sprang up all over the hill hosting the likes of Joséphine Baker or Picasso. In parallel, It acquired a tumultuous reputation — almost extinct — as prostitution and erotic clubs developed in Pigalle around the Moulin Rouge, where even the bourgeoisie used to come and slum it!

The Hidden Montmartre tour

On this tour, we’ll act as perfect flaneurs as we meander in the streets of the more local and less hectic north side of the hill, up to its summit. On our way, we’ll admire the beautiful architecture, venture along hidden alleys looking like a village at times, peek at private mansions, and stop by quintessential cafés or gardens. When on top, we’ll be rewarded by a unique panorama on Paris and discover the artistic hub that makes today’s Montmartre reputation.

Tour Options

The tour can be extended with a 1-hour meal together in a local French bistro and a 1-hour stroll in the fancy surroundings of rue des Martyrs, formerly part of the lower Montmartre.